Carshalton paid tribute to a popular businessman after he died following a heroic battle with motor neurone disease.

Customers, residents and family members paid tribute to Mr Melvyn Clarke outside of his shop, Melvyn Clarke’s Carshalton, on June 24.

Mr Melvyn Clarke passed away peacefully on June 8, 2020, just over a year after he received the devastating diagnosis. 

Pictures show residents paying their respects outside of his store, whilst Melvyn's family walked behind the hearse.
Your Local Guardian: Residents pictured outside of Melvyn Clarke’s CarshaltonResidents pictured outside of Melvyn Clarke’s Carshalton

Hundreds of condolences have been seen online with many praising Melvyn for the mark he left on the community. 

The shop which has been around since 1964, has been branded a 'landmark' in tributes from residents. 

Adored by many, Melvyn leaves behind not only his wife, son, daughter and three grandsons but also the whole community.

Your Local Guardian: Melvyn Clarke opened his store in 1964Melvyn Clarke opened his store in 1964
Speaking to Sutton Guardian, Melvyn's daughter Sam said:

When the clapping started all the hairs on my neck stood up, I was crying from pride.

"Dad was so brave and never once complained throughout his illness.

"He fought it with every ounce of strength he had and showed us what true determination and will power can do. 
Your Local Guardian: Tribute for Melvyn Clarke on June 24Tribute for Melvyn Clarke on June 24

"Despite his illness, he worked in his shop right up until March just before lockdown.

He was a familiar face around Carshalton and the turn out from the community blew us away.

"Every single person there meant so much to us- they had taken the time to pay their respects to our dad. 

"Thanks to them they made what was an incredibly emotional day just that little bit easier." 

Melvyn's family has launched a fundraiser page to help fund research into Motor Neurone Disease. 

Sam added: "In just over two weeks, more than £5000 has been raised for MNDA in memory of our dad.

"For us to know that even after his life has ended, he is continuing helping others by raising funds is such a comfort to us."

Donations reached £5307 at the time of publishing. 

To donate, visit at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/melvynclarke