Alton Town Council has paid tribute to a member of its grounds team, Jason Hales, who died on January 17 aged 55.

Announcing the news to residents, the council said: “Many of you will have known Jason, particularly from your visits to the Public Gardens or from our Friends of King’s Pond volunteer sessions.

“Jason was well-liked among the team and was a pleasure to work with, always willing to help out and undertake any task he was given to the best of his ability.

“He was an enthusiastic gardener and cared about his work, and in particular about the Public Gardens.

“He enjoyed chatting with visitors to the gardens and will be greatly missed by members of the public and the Alton Town Council team.”