The life of a much-loved resident of a Herefordshire village is to be remembered with a special ceremony.

Family and friends of local stalwart John Robbins, who died of a heart attack on December 2 last year, aged 74, will gather in the garden of the Boot Inn in Orleton, where a tree has been planted in his honour.

Villagers will gather for the unveiling of a plaque next to the tree which organisers say will "commemorate his immense contribution to village life."

John Alderman, from Orleton said that Mr Robbins had for many years compiled and presented the monthly village quiz which was held in support of many and various local organisations, from the Church to the Brownies, sports groups and the Air Ambulance.

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He said "During Covid lock-down he also compiled and posted a twice weekly on-line quiz for those who were isolating.

"As an isolating couple we found this an invaluable contact with the outside world that kept us sane and involved with others in a similar situation.

He presented the quizzes with his famous quick wit and unique humour incorporated into the questions and, many times, hilarious answers.

He was also an integral part of the campaign to save the pub after it was put up for sale in 2017.

The pub was reopened in 2019 after villagers met the asking price to keep the community asset in the village.

Marj Prichard said that Mr Robbins was always the first to volunteer to help out at village events, such as the fetes or festivals.

She said even though he had trouble with his back and joints he would always help with all the heavy work such as putting up the marquee and signs.

Ms Pritchard said: "Everyone I spoke to always said how much they enjoyed talking to him as he was such a good storyteller and entertainer.

"He will be so missed. He really was one of a kind."

The ceremony to celebrate Mr Robbins will take place at the Boot Inn at 3pm on Saturday, October 29 in the presence of the chairman of Herefordshire Council, Coun Sebastian Bowen.