Tributes have been paid to Neal Chapman, who helped families keep their pets healthy and their gardens beautiful for over 50 years.

It is understood that the stalwart of the local community, who ran Percy Chapman & Son, died last week as a result of Covid.

Four generations of the same family have run the shop since 1886, which has been relied on by locals for pet supplies, plants, garden products and other essentials.

His family announced on social media that Mr Chapman, who had passed on the business to the next generation, passed away last week.

A message from the family on Facebook read: "It is with great sadness to have to tell you all that we lost our dear dad Neal Chapman on 7th January, he will be truly missed by all that knew him, running Percy Chapman & Son for over 58 years he worked his whole life to make the business what it is today!!

"We owe him everything! We are all totally devastated! He will leave a massive hole in our hearts."

Amanda-Jane Chapman wrote: "It is with a heavy heart that we are letting you know that Neal Chapman from Percy Chapman & Son has passed away on 7th of January after a short illness from Covid. As a family we are truly devastated, he will be a massive loss to all who knew him."

Among the many tributes, the Animal Rescue & Care charity said: "Awful news about Mr C who was a great friend to our charity. He went above and beyond to keep our animals supplied with hay and food."

Another customer wrote: "Very sorry to hear this news. A much loved Twickenham institution. Condolences to the family."

Fran Perrow wrote: "Very sad news … The nicest person and such a hard-working, successful small business owner.

"He never got the retirement he deserved. He'd only just handed the business over to Gareth and Amanda and then the pandemic hit."

Richmond councillor, Avril Coelho, expressed her condolences and stressed how important it is to continue to take safeguards against the spread of Covid.

She wrote: "An important reminder to shoppers to wear a mask and avoid shopping in pairs or groups unnecessarily filling enclosed spaces. Please look out for restrictions on numbers in small shops before entering. Keep shop staff safe so we can remain open."