FLOWERS have been left outside Tesco Metro in Cirencester in memory of regular visitor Russell Jackson.

Russell, who found a safe haven in the Big Yellow Bus homeless shelter when it first opened, was a regular face outside Tesco in the centre of town.

Tributes are pouring in on social media from people who got to know him over the years.

Tracey Ann Eager said: "Both myself and hubby nick feel privileged to have met Russ. A lovely man. RIP Russ."

Gerry Watkins, who runs the Big Yellow Bus in Cirencester, has organised a plaque to be put on the bus in remembrance, and plans to invite everyone who knew him to be present at the unveiling.

Gerry said: “Russell was a very proud man and he never asked for anything.

“Russell had a heart as big as him and I remember telling him about the plans I had about doing The Big Yellow Bus Project back in 2017.”

Russell was invited onto the bus when it opened. “He cried and couldn’t believe it,” said Gerry.

He added: “Russell also had full respect for the project like all the guests do and soon realised that people did care about him and the other homeless people.

“Russell was well respected in the town and his memory will live on.”

Cirencester Signpost, a charity which provides support for those in the community in need, offering meals and advice, knew Russell for five years.

Chairman Graham Harris said: "Throughout that time he made a big impression on others as can be seen by the outpouring of messages and flowers left in his memory.

"We reflected on his time with us at our Good Neighbour meal the day after the sad news and one of our friends brought in a photograph to reflect back on happier times.

"What has truly inspired me is the stories from the community. Clearly there are many within our town who are going beyond words and taking practical action to help the homeless, most of it hidden gestures of kindness. I would like to thank each and every one of them for their care and compassion."

He added: "To those hurting and coming to terms with the loss of Russell including his family and close friends, you have my thoughts and prayers and may you gain comfort from happy memories. If we learn one thing out of this tragedy, it is to commit to making the plight of the homeless one that is worthy of our greatest efforts. This is the very least that Russell would have wanted."

Please leave your tributes to Russell Jackson in the comments section or on Facebook.