A SHOPPING centre manager has paid tribute to a long-serving member of staff, describing him as a 'true friend'.

Erica Burlace, manager for Crowngate, has shared her memories of security supervisor Pete Smith, after he died peacefully at his home aged 67.

Mr Smith, of Apple Tree Close, Holt Heath, near Worcester, had worked at the centre since it opened 25 years ago.

Scores of Crowngate employees attended his funeral at Worcester Crematorium on Friday.

Ms Burlace said: “We operate as an extended family here at Crowngate Shopping Centre and very much saw our natural role as Pete’s extended family.

"In recent weeks Pete was full of mischief and fun, poking it at others mainly, which we grew to expect. Only he could get away with it and now we miss the funny jokes.

"As well as that Pete was seen as a true friend to the team at Crowngate, he would always lend an ear and support where it was needed and loved to enquire about the team's children always in a genuine way."

Ms Burlace added that Mr Smith had a habit of drumming along to the radio with a ruler or a pen.

She said: "It is strange not having Pete at work, he is greatly missed and the days are just not the same.

"We are comforted that he is at peace with his Jan - who he was devoted to - and the boys will continue to fish in his favourite spot.”

Mr Smith, who died on Saturday, October 21, previously described Crowngate as a great place to work.