Tributes pour in for Ben Kreisler after sudden tragic death

Ben Kreisler was found dead in his room at St Paul's Hostel in Tallow Hill on Monday evening, causing shock and sadness throughout the city.

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Despite the efforts of hostel staff and paramedics Mr Kreisler, who had lived in both Pershore and Worcester, could not be saved.

A measure of how he was regarded was how swiftly flowers were left at one of his favourite spots, steps near Asda.

MISSED: Ben Kreisler made his mark on people's hearts.

The 36-year-old, who battled addiction, clearly touched the lives of many people in the city who have described him not only as a 'character' but as a highly intelligent man with a sensitive and creative side who loved reading.

They said he was always grateful when someone tried to help him and often had kind words (and sometimes hugs) for strangers and friends alike.

RESPECT: Mark Prosser (left) and Wayne Bullock knew Ben Kreisler and wanted to pay their respects to him

He was also said to be kind to animals and to ask about the welfare of Worcester's swans.

Wayne Bullock, 46, of Lowesmoor said he was a volunteer for a swan rescue charity and Mr Kreisler wanted to know the swans were prospering.

"He was always asking me how the swans are and how many chicks they had. He was a caring bloke" said Mr Bullock.

Jon Parkes wrote on Facebook: "Very sad, saw his face around Worcester a lot, never know what people are battling. RIP."

Cath Allen said: "Remember Ben from Pershore, so sad RIP."

Mark Garness wrote: "Never did anyone harm, just sat there reading a book... sometimes I bought him a coffee on a cold morning, he was really grateful.

No more problems Ben."

Andria MacMurray said: "This is very sad. RIP Ben. I saw him sat outside ASDA a few times, always polite and had his book and I would give him a fiver here and there.

"Addictions are horrid, can happen to anyone of us, just takes one thing to make us go off the rails or something drastic in our life to change."

Jo Smith said: "I used to see this lovely man outside Asda a lot. He once looked in the pram at my baby and congratulated me on her arrival.

"I was so touched, as barely anyone would come near us, let alone speak to us due to being in the second lockdown.

I was really grateful for his kindness and thoughtfulness that day."

Donna Dee described him as 'a polite and charming character' while Abby Williams wrote: "So sad, he was an intelligent man who'd lost his way in life."

Adrian Gisborne wrote: "Sleep easy ole pal you will be missed by many."

Sky Rose said of Mr Kreisler: "One of the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure to know.

"From the long discussions at ridiculous hours of the morning to the constant creativity that he showed.

"I’m glad I bought a piece of art off him, it’ll stay in pride of place in my home forever. RIP Wiley."