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Memorial bench on Deal Promenade dedicated to bin man Robert Wand in special service

A bench in memory of much-loved Deal bin man Robert Wand has been installed along the seafront.

The tribute can be seen opposite 199 Beach Street and between the two Art Deco shelters.

A small dedication ceremony took place on Sunday, attended by family, friends, and some of those who contributed to the cost of the seat. People wanted to pay their respects to Mr Wand, who died suddenly in January at the age of 63.

Tributes flooded in for Mr Wand, who was a well-liked bin man in Deal
Tributes flooded in for Mr Wand, who was a well-liked bin man in Deal

The Rev Christopher Dent, who conducted Mr Wand’s funeral, carried out the dedication and blessed the bench.

He also paid tribute to Mr Wand, who would often stop and talk to people when working or when walking his dog Lucy.

The Rev Christopher Dent, who carried out the dedication of Robert Wand's memorial bench
The Rev Christopher Dent, who carried out the dedication of Robert Wand's memorial bench

Members of local scooter clubs attended to pay their respects.

Mr Wand was passionate about his Lambretta SX200 when he was younger.

Tony Wickenden, administrator of Facebook community page Deal Watch, said: “Everyone agreed that the location was perfect and we shall all remember Rob when we pass or sit to watch the world go by.

The dedication to Robert Wand on the back of the bench
The dedication to Robert Wand on the back of the bench

“I have committed to keeping the bench cleaned and re-oiled every spring, I will be honoured to do it to remember a lovely bloke.”

One of Mr Wand’s colleagues managed to time his collection round so he could attend with Mr Wand’s old work van.

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