MORE than 50 people attended the funeral of homeless man John Dickinson to pay their respects.
The service, held at Breakspear Crematorium on Thursday morning last week, was organised by Hillingdon Council because no relatives could be traced. But there was no shortage of mourners for Mr Dickinson, a friendly face in the town for more than 10 years.
Local shopkeepers, neghbours and community figures were among the congregation.
Hayes Town Partnership chairman, David Brough, gave a moving tribute, recounting personal accounts from people who knew Mr Dickinson best, before he spoke about the community’s shock over the death.
Councillor Janet Gardner (Lab, Botwell) said: “It was a fitting tribute to a man who was part of Hayes, and who was respected by everyone who knew him.”
Mr Dickinson died of a suspected heart attack in December, aged 52. Despite being well-known in the area, little is known for sure about his past other than he probably grew up in Hayes.
A collection in his memory has started, which is to go towards an inscribed seat for the town, in his honour. Donations can be made at the One Stop Shop at 49-51 Station Road, Hayes.
