Sutton's Jesusman' has died aged 61.

Anthony Dare earned the affectionate nickname because of his penchant for white clothing and his long, greying beard.

A common face around Sutton, he could often be found taking in the world on a park bench.

Concern mounted after he was not seen around the borough for the past two months. A page on the social networking site Facebook was set up to discuss his whereabouts.

But on Saturday, September 29, the lovable eccentric lost his battle with stomach cancer and died at St Helier Hospital.

His half sister Susan Howe said he had been unwell for a while and was in and out of hospital.

"The last time I saw him, two weeks ago, he didn't look too good, and had lost a lot of weight," she said.

"He still managed to keep his clothes white, but his mind was wondering.

"His greatest pleasure was spending his money on biscuits to feed the pigeons, and when he didn't do that he just gave his money to children. He had always been a kind man like that."

A funeral is due to be held on Thursday, October 11, at North East Surrey Crematorium, in Lower Morden Lane, Morden at 11.30pm. All are welcome to attend.

Mrs Howe has requested donations to Concer Research be sent in place of flowers, care of Alfred Smith Funeral Directors, in Wrythe Lane, Carshalton.