‘He was taken from us far too soon’: Tributes paid to ‘caring’ Barry Hoddinott, who died in Bexleyheath

Mr Hoddinott, who was in his 60s, collapsed in the street in Bourne Mead, not far from where he lived.

Barry Hoddinott

Met Police officers were called to the scene at 7.25am, by the London Ambulance Service, and Mr Hoddinott was pronounced dead at the scene.

Mr Hoddinott worked at Crayford Motors, a Citroen dealership in London Road which is now known as Wilmoths, for several years.

Three family members have now paid tribute to Mr Hoddinott, who has been described as a loving and caring grandad.

Hayley Kaye said: "All of our family were shocked to hear the news about him passing - it was heartbreaking.

"He was such a generous, caring man who made us all laugh.

"He was taken far too soon and he will be missed dearly. Sleep tight Grandad."

Ellie Brennan added: "Rest easy Grandad, I miss you so so much already it still doesn't seem real.

"I still think I'll see you soon with the donuts - I'll make you proud of me as much as I can.

"Sleep tight my angel, I love you X".

Taryn Brennan told News Shopper: “Barry Hoddinott was my grandad – we were all very shocked to hear the news of him passing.

“He was a good, kind man and was taken far too soon from us all. We love you grandad, sleep tight x”.

Former colleague Charlotte Wright added: “Barry was a very caring man and always made me laugh.

“He will be sadly missed.”

A Met spokesman said: “The death is being treated as unexplained. At this early stage, the death is not believed to be suspicious.”

The road was reportedly cordoned off from around 7.40am – whilst four police cars and a Met van were said to be on the scene.

If you would like to pay tribute to Mr Hoddinott, please email: josie.griffiths@london.newsquest.co.uk