A site meeting will be held this week to choose the location of a publicly-funded memorial bench.

Well-known bin man Robert Wand, 63, of College Road, died suddenly on January 20, after he collapsed near his home.

The cause of death remains unknown.

Mr Wand was always seen walking his beloved Jack Russell Lucy and was described by his friends as a man with old-school values who loved his job.

Residents recalled seeing Mr Wand around the town, saying he brightened many people’s day.

The idea was raised on social media site Deal Watch and within a day of a JustGiving page being set up, hundreds of pounds was pledged.

The wording on the page said: “People in Deal want to buy a memorial bench for Robert Wand, who was a much-loved character in our town.

“And because we want to have a permanent reminder of Robert, when the target is reached, the bench will be ordered immediately.”

Reams of comments on the page showed just how many people knew Mr Wand as a friend or acquaintance.

While the location has not yet been picked, the bench is likely to be positioned between Deal Pier and Sandown Castle.

Mr Wand lived at the North end of the town all of his life.

It is understood that this is part of his family’s wishes.

Tony Wickenden, the administrator of Deal Watch, has been arranging for the bench to become a reality, and confirmed “all is in hand” with Dover District Council.

Mr Wickenden said: “Once we get a date of installation I am going to try and organise a dedication ceremony.

“He was a really lovely bloke – which is reflected by the generosity of the people of the town in donating so much so quickly for the bench in his memory.”