A much-loved doctor and Rotarian has died, sparking an outpouring of emotion from friends, colleagues and patients.

Dr Tay Aung passed away on Wednesday after he had been unwell for some time following problems with his heart and kidneys.

He was a well-respected GP at Third Avenue Health Centre on Canvey before retiring from the practice in 2001. He also worked at Highlands Surgery in Leigh.

Practice manager at the Canvey centre, Faye Graham, worked with Mr Aung for 11 years.

She said: “My deepest condolences go out to his wonderful wife and family.

“He will be forever in my heart.

“I knew Tay for 51 years and will be forever grateful for the kindness he showed and gave my own family when my dad was ill and subsequently passed away in 1974.

“We had to move a mattress downstairs once and I still remember Dr Aung lying on the floor next to my dad so that my dad didn’t have to strain his neck to see him – they would be chatting away about fishing. Not many doctors would have done that.

“He was a truly remarkable, wonderful gentleman.”

Faye explained how Dr Aung would wear a bow tie when examinations were due to take place so that it wouldn’t get in the patient’s way.

She, added: “He had his quirky ways – he would hide Mars Bars in his top drawer, would wear a bow tie on occasions when examinations may occur.

“Patients absolutely loved him and still talk about him to this day. He was such a caring, kind old school family doctor.

“He was so passionate about his work and always went over and above the call of duty. We kept in touch since his retirement and I will miss him greatly.”

Mr Aung, 85, was president of Canvey Rotary from 1987 until 1988 after having lived on the island for most of his life before moving to Brentwood in recent years.

Canvey Rotary’s president, Tracy Winch, said: “We are really sad. Tay will be remembered for a lifetime of service to the people of Canvey both professionally and through personal acts of service to the community as a past president of our Rotary Club. Rest peacefully our friend.”

David Hook, former president of Canvey Rotary, said: “It was a privilege to have known Tay. My thoughts and prayers go out to Philomena and the family. A lovely man whose quiet compassion and concern for others will be greatly missed.”

Andy Thoupos, 81, a former Canvey Rotary president, added: “He really was a lovely person, you couldn’t wish to meet a nicer person.”