PROPERTY redecoration and repair company owner, Tony Nehlig of Bournemouth , has passed away at the age of 65.

Born in London, Tony was taken into a children's home operated by London County Council at around the age of four, along with his brother, Paul, and his sister, Francis, where he lived for most of his young life.

He arrived in Bournemouth in the early 1970s along with his best friend, John Varney, with whom he lodged with for a while at John's mother's house.

Equipped with a strong work ethic and a determination to succeed, he got his first painting job after walking from street to street knocking on doors.

From there, he built up his business, A.J. Nehlig and Co, through his own hard work, with Tony specialising in the refurbishment of high rise office buildings and flats.

In a statement on the company's website, it read: "His son, Luke, and the team will continue to provide the high standard of work and service of which Tony was passionate, and gave for over forty years.

"On behalf of Tony, we would like to thank all our valued customers, past and present, and look forward to continuing his work, in his legacy, and under the company which he started and was proud of."

Tony also served as a Freemason for a number of years and was a keen supporter of UKIP, acting as a candidate for the Littledown and Iford Ward in Bournemouth East. If elected, he was keen to support the party's campaign to leave the EU.

Away from the public eye, his partner of 12 years, Christine Carter, said that Tony was a very popular man and was described by his many friends as a funny, kind, all-round good guy, who enjoyed a drink of Bacardi and coke.

Tony passed away at his home on September 13 and his funeral will take place on October 7 at Bournemouth Crematorium.