The funeral of a much-loved shopkeeper "who never missed a day of work" will take place next week.

News swept through Deal of Jason Down’s passing early this month as fellow traders paid tribute to a "real character".

He had run the Allsorts tools and DIY shop in the high street, where floral tributes were laid outside.

The funeral is at 11.20am at Barham Crematorium near Canterbury on Friday, November 3.

Beforehand the cortege will head down the high street past Mr Down’s shop, at about 10.30am.

His relatives have asked for family flowers only by request.

Donations can be made to the British Heart Foundation and Macmillan via the funeral directors J. Dilnot Smith and Son.

All other enquiries should go to the firm through its offices at 184 Gladstone Road, Walmer, Kent, CT14 7EL.

Locals described Mr Down as a “real character” who would help anyone.

He was seen as a stalwart of the community, with neighbouring traders even using his shop for equipment for work on their own businesses.

Arno Karson, of the Arno & Co grocers, said: “He was a real character and so vibrant.

“He always had something funny to say.

“He never missed a day of work and his shop was a treasure trove.”