TRIBUTES have been paid this week to award-winning fundraiser and community hero Reg Box, who died on Saturday, August 24.

Mr Box was a frequent visitor to old folks’ homes around Malvern, where he would entertain residents with old-time songs, while wearing his trademark hat and waistcoat.

His efforts at these visits, as well as regular bingo evenings and a host of other fund-raising events, saw him raise more than £120,000 for the Midland Air Ambulance over the last 17 years.

Mr Box, of Brook Farm Drive, passed away peacefully at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, his son, Nigel, said.

He had celebrated his 95th birthday in July.

Mr Box’s efforts saw him earn an award from the air ambulance in 2011, confirming him as the charity’s longest-serving fundraiser, while just a few months earlier he had been the recipient of a Community Hero award from your Malvern Gazette.

“He was still active until very recently and in the end he went quickly and painlessly, as he would have wanted,” said his son.

“We will long treasure our find memories of a colourful life. He will be missed not only by us but by all whose hearts he touched.”

Anne Newell, fundraising manager for the air ambulance, said: “Words can’t express our gratitude to Reg for his hard work over the years.

“He kept going long after most people would have reckoned they’d done their bit and put their feet up. We will always be grateful to him and he will be sadly missed.”

As well as being known for his charity work, Mr Box was a long-standing supporter of Malvern Town Football Club, serving as president for a number of years.

Margaret Scott, from the club, said: “Mr Box was a pillar of strength in the club, and continued to use the club as the venue for his air ambulance bingo sessions.

“He was always friendly, helpful and cheerful, and he will be missed by everyone here.”

A funeral service will be held at Worcester Crematorium on Thursday, September 5, at 2pm.

Family flowers only are requested, and donations in Mr Box’s memory can be made to the air ambulance via Hollands Funeral Service.

The family is asking that those attending should not wear black, with light-coloured clothing or bright ties preferred.

Did you know Reg? Do you have fond memories of his antics and his commitment to Malvern?

Leave your tributes in the comments section below.