A RETIRED refuse collector who devoted his life to ‘keeping Kendal clean’ has died, aged 74.

Harold Webster served the town for four decades, first as a bin man and then patrolling the pavements as a street sweeper.

Describing himself as ‘very Kendalian’, Mr Webster lived in the town all his life and became a familiar face through his mission to keep the streets spotless.

“He knew everybody and everybody knew him – he was quite a character in town,” said Isobel Ashburner, Service Co-ordinator at Jenkins Crag Court, where Mr Webster had lived for two-and-a-half years.

“We all thought the world of him, he was a true gentleman and we were very proud of what he had achieved in his life.

“He was a very private man and was quite shy when he came to us, but as time went on he became more sociable and he had a lot of friends here, who were very fond of him.

“He was very independent and used to go into town most days, usually frequenting a fish and chip shop for his tea.”

A devout Christian, Mr Webster was a regular attendee at St Thomas’s Parish Church and drop-in sessions at Sandylands Methodist Church.

Sue Mansley, who had known Mr Webster through the church for almost 40 years, said “his faith was at the centre of his life.”

“He loved people, he had a good sense of humour and had an outgoing personality,” she added.

“He was happy to stand and chat to anybody on the street.”

Born in Elephant Yard, he worked for a short time in the laundry al James Cropper before starting work for the council.

Upon Mr Webster’s retirement at the age of 65, his foreman Chris Cook said: “He has been very loyal and a very conscientious worker.

“Thanks to him, Kendal is a nice, clean place.”

Mr Webster died peacefully in his sleep. His funeral takes place today (Thursday, 2pm) at Sandylands Methodist Church.