A POEM has emerged written by a much-loved Worcester man who died suddenly last week, with his former creative writing group members paying tribute.

Peter Middleton, who died aged 60 last Wednesday, was a familiar face in the city and lived on and off at St Paul’s Hostel for homeless people.

‘After the Darkness Follow the Trees’ was published in the hostel’s Creative Group poetry book in 2018 and is about overcoming dark thoughts to feel a sense of renewal.

Geraldine Lowman, coordinator of St Paul`s Creative Group, now called Creating Links Worcester, speaking on behalf of all members, said Mr Middleton was “much-valued, respected and well-loved”.

She said the group will plant bulbs on his favourite spot at Lock 4 (Blockhouse), near Foundry Street, of the Worcester to Birmingham canal.

“He had been a member for several years and he will be sorely missed for his great sense of fun and ability to discuss at length on any topic as he had such a fund of knowledge and life experience,” she said.

“He was a very caring person, protective of others and loved being in nature, feeding the swans by the canal and always had treats to give to dogs walking by.”

Mr Middleton was often seen at the canal, where he would offer a friendly greeting to dog walkers and other passersby.

He died when he was struck by a train on the tracks off Bromyard Road in St John’s at around 6.30pm on Wednesday, the Worcester News understands.

Ms Lowman went on to say: “He was somewhat of a Renaissance man as he could turn his hand to anything, he had been writing a fantastic story aimed at nine-14 year age range and had been a successful businessman.

“We shall miss him dreadfully when we litter pick along the canal as his favourite spot was by bridge 4 where he was well known for helping canal boats go through the Commandery lock.

“He had a spot nearby which he maintained meticulously.”