Epsom’s flagship clothing store has paid tribute to a "dedicated man loved by everybody" who worked there for 40 years and died last month.

Joseph Izzo, 75, of Cheam High Street, worked at Lester Bowden, the gentleman’s outfitters and sporting tailors at the heart of Epsom town centre, for 38 years.

He died on May 27 after suffering from ill health for 18 months, but "still managed to work up until a week before he went into hospital", according to the shop’s office manager, Jill Burford.

She said he was a "highly loved and well-respected" man who was known by many people.

Mrs Burford said: "Joseph started off in our school-wear department and then moved to men’s shoes and formal wear.

"He was Maltese and came over to the UK when he was 21, following a stint serving in the Merchant Navy in Malta.

"He enjoyed interacting with the customers and always had a story to tell - particularly about his days in the Navy.

"The people who came to the shop to be outfitted were then bringing their children to him too.

"He was very dedicated and independent, loved by everybody.

"Lots of people who knew him have called in to say they are sorry we have lost him."

Mrs Burford said Lester Bowden, which employs 55 staff members, would be closing its shop tomorrow afternoon to allow employees to attend Mr Izzo’s funeral.

She said: "This is the first time we’ve closed the shop for a staff funeral - but senior management felt it was right."

Christine Stanley, owner of women’s boutique Basler, which is adjacent to Lester Bowden, said: "It’s a lovely thing to do, for a company in this day and age to shut for a whole afternoon."

Mr Izzo’s funeral will be held tomorrow, June 18, at Randalls Park Crematorium, in Randalls Road, Leatherhead, at 2.45pm. Anyone wishing to pay their respects is welcome.