TRIBUTES were paid to a “much-loved” homeless man who was killed outside a shop in Westbourne 13 years ago.

A memorial organised by the Rotary Club of Westbourne and attended by a crowd of people was held in front of a new planter bearing a plaque in tribute to Ralph Millward on Saturday.

The Big Issue seller, 41, was kicked and left for dead by three teenagers at his pitch outside Marks and Spencer after refusing to give up his tobacco. 

Bournemouth Echo: Ralph Millward. Credit Rotary Club of Westbourne Facebook pageRalph Millward. Credit Rotary Club of Westbourne Facebook page

Ralph’s friend and colleague Simon Chilcott, who first met him in 2007, paid tribute to the popular vendor. He said: “My earliest memories of Ralph were of how kind and well-mannered he was. Yes, of course he could be grumpy sometimes – but who is not? 

“He always lit up the office whenever he came in to buy more magazines. 

Read more: Big Issue seller Ralph Millward remembered with new flowers

“Ralph was such a character and absolutely loved selling the big issue outside M&S for many years.  

“He was a charmer when selling the magazine, not only to local Westbourne folk but also people returning for their holiday.” 

Ralph was often seen walking along Poole Road whilst reading a book.

Simon added: “It always baffled me how he could walk for so long reading a book whilst avoiding kerbs, people, parked cars and traffic without causing an accident. And he did it with such grace too.” 

A bush was planted by Simon at the memorial. 

Bournemouth Echo: Bush planted in memory of Ralph and other homeless peopleBush planted in memory of Ralph and other homeless people

Cllr John Beesley, who was also present at the memorial, described it as a “celebration of Ralph”, adding it was a “very sad occasion 13 years ago."

He said: “This memorial stands as a remembrance for all those homeless and disadvantaged in society. I believe that we forget that at our peril and I am very pleased and honored to be asked to say a few words to commemorate Ralph's life and to do all that we can in society to prevent such a tragedy from ever happening again.” 

Bournemouth Echo: Cllr John Beesley speaking at the eventCllr John Beesley speaking at the event

Ralph’s Book Exchange, where venders can swap books at the Big Issue office, will be brought back after it was paused due to the pandemic.