Heartfelt tributes have been pouring in to a much-loved former pub landlord who has died following a cancer battle.

Former owner of Orsett's popular Whitmore Arms, Jim Orman died yesterday, his daughters have announced.

In 2020 Jim's wife, and fellow former owner of the Whitmore Arms, Margaret died after a battle with Covid-19.

She had been admitted to Basildon Hospital for treatment and spent three weeks there before sadly passing away. The pub confirmed the news of her death in a Facebook post.

The couple, who bought The Whitmore Arms in 1994, were both well-known and well respected across Thurrock.

In a statement yesterday, the couple's daughters Vicky and Julia said: "Our hero, our dad and grandad sadly found his angel wings this morning. We can’t describe how we are feeling.

"All we can take comfort from is that our dad is no longer in pain from cancer and is back with our mum dancing in the skies.

"We are so proud to have parents who worked so hard, gave us so much love and were part of the Thurrock community for over 50 years.

"Whether you knew our parents from Orman’s the corner shop, The Marisco Aveley or The Whitmore Arms they were true legends through and through. 

"We shall love and miss you so very much."

The post received hundreds of heartfelt tributes as residents remembered the kind community legend.

One said: "Sorry to hear the news about Jim. I work at his bank and he would always be a happy soul having a chat when he came in."

Another commented: "Jim was such a lovely man, a true gentleman. Sincere condolences to you all. Rest easy Jim. Reunited with your beloved Margaret. You will be sadly missed."