SAINSBURY’S Store in Liphook lost one of its most loved members of the team when Albert Briscoe sadly passed away in the store on August 19.

Customers have paid respect to the “true gent” by leaving tributes at till No. 17, Albert’s till, which remained closed for a few days in his honour.

He has been described as an inspiration for the people he worked with, an old school gentleman, always friendly, making shopping a pleasure and taking time to speak to his customers.

Store manager Stu Purdy told The Herald: “Albert had worked with us for 11 years and was very popular among the locals. Many customers would make a beeline for till No. 17, the only one he ever wanted to work on. He will be very much missed by us all.”

Albert was born on August 21, 1939, and he would have been celebrating his 77th birthday, just two days after he passed away.

Mr Purdy added: “In a world where tradition and respect isn’t on everyone’s agenda they certainly were on Albert’s – he was a proper old fashioned English gent.”

In his youth, Albert was a trader in the city and an astute businessman. He loved his English Rugby Union and followed the teams progress with great interest.

Albert was a special feature of shopping at the store in Midhurst Road, with many faithful customers, only wanting to be served by him, no matter how long the queue was.

In later years he had to take time off through illness, but he was always keen to get back and do a full day’s work.

His wife Susie has made funeral arrangements at St James Church, Church Lane, Rowledge, at 3.30pm, on Thursday, September 8. All are welcome.