A father of two killed in a road accident has been hailed as one of the most popular men in his home town.

Friends, family and colleagues in Lewes paid tribute to Paul Wheeler, a court who usher played a prominent part in town life including a role as Archbishop of Commercial Square in the annual bonfire celebrations.

He was well known as a cyclist, motorcyclist and for his parts in Mummers plays, as well as for his enthusiasm for the 1940s and First World War eras and as a collector of antique vehicles.

Jim Leaney, a friend for the past 23 years, said: “He is a very well known person, one of the most popular men in Lewes.

“Everyone knew who he was. We are absolutely devastated.”

Mr Wheeler, 54, was run over as he and his wife Dawn returned from a 60th birthday barbecue in Long Hill on Saturday night.

He was pushing his bicycle across the A27 opposite the Newmarket Inn, between Lewes and Falmer, at about 10.10pm when he was hit by a car and died at the scene. Police have appealed for witnesses.

Mrs Wheeler, 40, said: “He didn’t die alone. I felt his pulse. He was alive, then he faded away.”

Mr Wheeler is also survived by his sons Sam, 22, and Joe, 21, and by his first wife Wendy.

Mr and Mrs Wheeler, of Market Lane, Lewes, married in February 2005. As 1940s enthusiasts, he and his wife had a period-themed wedding, with Mr Wheeler dressed as a wartime spiv. He and Mr Leaney were best men at each other’s weddings.

Mrs Wheeler paid tribute to her husband. She said: “Paul’s way was always the right way. He was a very strong character and much loved.”

Mr Wheeler, who worked as a printer for The Argus in the 1980s, had worked at Lewes Crown Court for a year when he died.

Dave Manning, court manager of Lewes Crown Court, said: “The whole of Lewes has lost a larger than life character who will always be missed.”

Judge Richard Brown, resident judge at Lewes and Recorder of Brighton and Hove, said: “All the staff and judges at Lewes Crown Court are devastated by the news of the death of our usher and good friend Paul.”

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