Tributes have been paid to a much-loved taxi driver who was well-known throughout the High Wycombe community after he passed away suddenly aged 58.

Khalid Hussain – known as Curly – was a taxi driver with Neales Taxis and worked in their office for more than 25 years, and worked right up until the day he died.

He sadly passed away on June 25 and his funeral was held on June 27 at the Jubilee Road Mosque.

His colleagues at Neales shut down the office as a mark of respect and so they could pay tributes at his funeral for two hours on Thursday.

His colleague and friend Anwar Rashid said Curly was “one of the most well-known and loved personalities this town has ever seen”.

He said a moving tribute on the Neales Facebook page had “evoked a heartfelt response showing the true brilliance of his character and how he touched so many people’s hearts”.

The tribute reads: “I’m sure everybody will have met or spoken with him many times. He was a truly unique person, caring, friendly, loyal, respectful and always bubbly, to name but a few of his great attributes.

“I can’t articulate how great this man actually was, we have all lost a dear friend.

“Curly will be deeply missed by us all, Neales will never be the same without him.”

Hundreds of people paid tribute to Curly on the post.

Laraine Welland said: “Deepest sympathy to his family and to you all at his passing. Curly was always cheerful and so very thoughtful. He always asked after my mum and dad and couldn't do enough to help them. RIP Curly.”

Sharon Çetin said: “Wycombe has lost a true legend. RIP Curly, you will be greatly missed.”

Simon Essery added: “Curly was an amazing man and will be truly missed by everyone who had the pleasure of meeting him. RIP my friend.”