TRIBUTES have been paid to a legendary volunteer who was literally a light of Bromyard.
The town's Christmas lights brigade mourned the death of Edgar Whiteley, describing him as: "One of our most loyal, hard working, longest serving and nicest members. "
They added Edgar was the first to spot a problem, the first out to help, always out in all weathers, never complaining and had been the one to turn on the Christmas lights in 2018 - a very popular choice.
"He was the very best of men, and we will miss him so much."
Edgar was also a founding member and chair of Bromyard Twinning Association, which started in 1979 with Athis de l'Orne in Normandy and was a true champion of the community.
The association recalled: "Edgar and his wife, Betty, remained in close contact with their hosts, still regularly visiting and hosting. Until recently, Edgar was still on the committee and was particularly famous for providing a bottle of Calvados at twinning social events in Bromyard."
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Edgar who died after a short illness on February 3, was also praised by the local football club, where he was president, as a "special man."
He started junior football in Bromyard many years ago, ran several teams over the years and was heavily involved in the setting up of Bromyard Town FC. He was passionate about children in Bromyard being given an opportunity to play football with the club adding that the saying "Its not all about winning, its the taking part that counts" was Edgar's philosophy and he spent his life promoting it.
Edgar who is survived by his wife and two sons was also member of the local branch of the RBL and a regular collector for the annual poppy appeal, along with looking after the memorial garden in Bromyard.
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