Heartfelt tributes to popular Midhurst shop owner - 'He was always happy'

Vinay Patel, who owned Dummers News Agents on West Street for 15 years, has died at the age of 62 after a short illness.

A funeral procession was held through Midhurst to Petworth Post Office, where Vinay also worked, last Thursday (February 4).

"We want to thank the community for their support and for all the letters, flowers and messages," Vinay's son, Bhavin, said.

"It was nice to see the community come out to pay their respects. It shows how much he meant to people in community.

"It has really helped, in the toughest of times, to see how much he meant to everyone and how well liked he was.

"He was a big community man. When he came to Midhurst, he really loved it here. He became ingrained in the community. He was always happy. "

Bhavin remembered his dad as a 'humble, generous and very friendly' man, who 'did a lot for people', both in his shop and out in the community.

He added: "He has always been a real role model for myself and my sister, Jashmin.

"He was a really strong support for my mum, Premila, over the years and a great husband. They were happily married for almost 40 years.

"It's a really tough time, with hospitals being overrun, and we're in a really dark period but I know he would want us to stay strong. He really enjoyed the last period of his life."

Vinay formed a close bond with his colleagues at Dummers after his move from Richmond, Surrey.

Shop manager Terry Ottway said: "He was a great man. He was generous, kind and genuinely a really nice guy.

"He will be missed around here. Everyone liked him."

Mary Benson said her former boss 'will never be forgotten'.

She added: "He was one in a million, a true gentleman.

"He became my boss in Dummers News for 13 years but then it changed to being a true friend and not just to me but to everyone that knew him and worked for him.

"He was always there for anyone if he could. Vinay was also a fantastic husband and father and loved to be around all members of his family."

Midhurst Town Council also paid its respects to Vinay.

Chairman Carol Lintott said: "The town council were saddened to hear of the passing of Vinay Patel.

"Dummers is a long standing business in West Street and his loss will be felt by many.”