TRIBUTES have flooded in for a well-loved homeless man supported by residents and kind-hearted traders in Christchurch.

Wanderer Cliff Cunningham, 57, who slept rough in the town, passed away in Bournemouth Hospital.

Cliff had based himself in Christchurch in the past few years, and was also well-known in Ringwood and Ashurst in the New Forest.

The popular nomad spent much of his childhood in Malta before moving back to Hampshire, where he left school at the age of 15 to start travelling.

Despite passing several O-levels, the conventional life was not for him and he moved around the UK and through Europe on his push bike, even spending time working in Israel on a kibbutz.

Postcards would be sent to family from various exotic locations and often Cliff would just turn up at home, expecting a feast, according to his sister Vanessa Cunningham.

She said Cliff, who was one of five siblings, loved music, his favourites including Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen, and was never without his radio.

“Many people met and loved him along his travels,” Vanessa said

“Many people were kind and helpful. He sometimes looked frightening and intimidating – but once you spoke to him you realised how kind and friendly he really was.”

“Many around the region were extremely kind and very understanding of his accepted way of life.”

Many traders including Oswald Bailey, Christchurch News in the High Street, The Cobblers in Saxon Square and William Hill all helped Cliff out when he was in town.

Special constable Brenda Traylen added: “Everyone who came to Christchurch knew him and so many people in the town were supporting him in different ways.

“He had a mailing address at one place, others looked after his medication, some heated up food for him and did his washing. There are too many to mention.

“I was his friend. He was a lovely, lovely man and he will be much missed by everyone. Cliff was a real free spirit.”

A service of farewell will take place at Christchurch bandstand on the Quay at 12.30pm on Tuesday September 25.

Everyone is welcome.

‘He was such a character’

Wendy Cummings, who is a regular visitor to Christchurch, said she was devastated when she learnt Cliff had died.

“I had only very recently spoken to him.

“He posed for some pictures for me so I could do this painting I was going to give him.

“He was such a character and I got chatting to him. He was lovely and a big part of the town.

“I’d love for the painting to be in Christchurch for him.”