A GRIEVING Taunton family say they don't think they will ever recover from the sudden death of a homeless man.

Wesley Keirle, 43, who had been a familiar face in the town for several years, died on January 26.

A Go Fund Me appeal to help meet Wes's funeral costs has already raised £1,441.

His sister Hannah Parsons said the death of "our beautiful Wesley", who was educated at The Castle School, has "impacted our lives in a way I don't think we will ever recover from".

She added: "My parents are going through something they could never have prepared themselves for and I am taking it upon myself to help relieve some of the strain by trying to help and raise some money so Wesley can have the farewell he deserved.

"Wesley was loved by a lot of people and he is one person whose memory will go down in history with our little town."

Wes was for many years cared for by staff at charity Arc - previously Taunton Association for the Homeless.

A spokesperson there said: "We are very saddened by the tragic death of Wes.

"We knew Wes well and he was a charming and caring man who sadly faced some difficult battles. Our thoughts and condolences are with his friends and family."

Arc support worker Kev said: "I was very proud to call him a friend, my brother.

"We had our moments, one minute he loved me and would tell everyone the next he hated me, but I knew deep down he cared about me and understood.

"I am also very proud of TAH/Arc and the work that they did for him. The love and respect showed in everyone. I also know his family felt that Wes was safe under our support.

"He will be missed for many reasons by everyone who knew him, from the residents who have told me what he meant to them, to the support workers who are gutted, as am I, that he has left us.

"I personally feel a great loss. That’s the only way I can say it.

"He was like my younger brother who you can fall out with, have problems with, but ultimately you loved him.

"I will miss seeing him every day, I will miss the banter, I will miss playing music with him. I will miss him."

Fellow Arc support worker Jason said: "I've worked with Wesley for many years and have watched him go through many challenges, a man who had his own battles to fight but would be the first to help anyone.

"It was an honour to know and with him. We will miss him very much."

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