TRIBUTES have been paid to a kind-hearted man ‘who would help anyone’.

Richard Hewitt, 83, from Goostrey, has died at Leighton Hospital, following a short illness.

The retired quantity surveyor leaves wife Sylvia, son Andrew, daughter Jane Burgess and five grandchildren.

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In a touching tribute, his family said: "Richard was a private person who will be sadly missed.

“He was always very generous with his time and would help anyone whether it was around the house or wanted a lift with something.

"He had a very inventive mind and could resolve or find a solution to most problems.

“He also loved nature and had an amazing knowledge of plants and wildlife and could name every bird in the garden but, after his family, walking was his first love."

Richard grew up in Alderley Edge, where his love of the outdoors and walking began.

In retirement, he was a familiar figure strolling along the lanes and footpaths in Goostrey.

He supported many events in the village, including the annual Rose Day and attended the Parish Council's Christmas lunch for senior citizens as well as visiting the Crown Inn socially and to celebrate family anniversaries.

His father, Arthur was a founder member of the Ramblers Association and a leading figure in the ‘Right to Roam’ battles on the moors around Manchester before the Second World War.

Richard worked as a quantity surveyor, mostly in the oil industry in the North Sea.

He had a natural talent for DIY tasks and completely remodelled the interior of their first bungalow in Goostrey, between spending several weeks at a time off-shore in Scotland working on oil rigs.

After downsizing to another part of the village 18 months ago, he continued to enjoy working around the house and garden and offering his skills to family and friends, whenever they needed help.

Richard’s funeral is on Thursday, March 30 at 11am in Birches Crematorium, Birches Lane, Lach Dennis.