TRIBUTES have been made following the death of the "father" of Bromyard and founder of the town's gala, John Wilkins.

Mr Wilkins - who received a Distinguished Citizens Award from the town council in September - died on Boxing Day.

His son Roger described him as the "driving force" behind the Bromyard Gala.

"He was also instrumental in ensuring the Bromyard Folk Festival could take place in the town," he said.

"He was the ultimate diplomat and always managed to keep everything on an even keel and make sure everything was running smoothly."

Mr Wilkins, who was in his eighties, has also left behind wife Jean, daughter Mary and four grandchildren - Emma, David, Thomas and James.

Town Clerk Mike Cresswell said: "He will be very sadly missed.

"He had a nickname that everyone knew him by - he was called 'father'.

"Everyone looked up to him so much for the things he did - he was such a gentleman."

Mr Wilkins served on the Bromyard Rural District Council, Malvern Hills District Council and was a member of the Bromyard and Winslow Town Council until May 2003.

He was also involved with the town's Christmas lights and twinning association.

Mayor Pearl Briggs said: "He was a very special man and was involved in everything.

"It's such a loss to the town, but he has left a lasting memory and was totally committed to Bromyard.

"I shall miss him very much."

The funeral is due to take place on Friday at St Peter's Church, Bromyard at 2pm.