Staff from a pub in Abbots Langley have paid tribute to a former customer with a plaque.

Paul Tempest was a regular face at The Swan in College Road, up until his death from pneumonia, following bowel surgery, at the end of March.

Staff said they were so saddened to hear of his death that in his honour they decided to buy a small gold sign, bearing his name, to hang opposite the bar.

Barmaid Louisa Tookey explained: “Paul was a familiar, popular face in the pub.

“I started working here only a year ago and he had a huge impact.

“He was always smiling, always ready with a story or a joke, a real character.

“When I found out he had died I was absolutely gutted and so decided to find a way that he could be remembered – a small plaque.

“It’s placed just above the couch where he always used to sit and I hope it will always be there.

“Even though Paul is gone, we will be able to see his name from the bar - part of him will be at The Swan forever.”