THE close companion of a village’s “well-loved character” and former milkman has paid tribute to his friend, describing him as a “local legend”.

Mick Moules, from Little Oakley, died aged 80 on August 21, when his heart failed after a long illness.

Born and educated in the village, Mick attended the first fixture of Little Oakley Football Club in 1947.

One of five, Mick was well-known in Harwich and Dovercourt having being known for his enthusiasm and cheerfulness while doing his milk round working for Seaman’s Dairy for most of his career.

Sadly, he was forced to put down his crates for good following a heart attack when he was 58.

James Martin, who was friends with Mick for 50 years, said everyone in the village and surrounding area knew him.

“He became something of a local legend when, at the age of 42, he announced he would take part in the London Marathon,” Mr Martin said.

“To the astonishment and admiration of many, he worked determinedly towards full fitness and recorded a highly-respectable time of three hours and 47 minutes.

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“In doing so, he raised a considerable sum for the Mayflower School funds.”

A lifetime lover of sport, including football, cricket and horse racing, Mick played for and then became an active supporter of Little Oakley FC, where he could often be found helping to keep the ground neat and tidy for matchdays.

He combined this with a strong interest in Harwich and Parkeston FC and supporting Sunday morning football.

Described by Mr Martin as a “driving force behind any number of get-togethers and activities,” with village open days a particular favourite, Mick loved to speak with people and get involved with as many events as possible in the community.

He also arranged and participated in many other social events, seizing upon opportunities to meet sports celebrities and chat to the likes of former England goalkeeper Ray Clemence and Arsenal legend Ray Parlour.

Mr Martin added: “Mick was a family man who loved nothing better than having fun with his grandchildren and any other family members who happened to be around him at the time.

“His good-natured chuckling will be remembered by all who knew him. He was a well-loved man.”