A table of flowers was set up for people to leave tributes to a much-loved shopkeeper.

 

It was announced on Tuesday (May 24) that Croxley Sports Shop owner and Croxley Green parish councillor Cliff Vassiliou had died.

Watford Observer: Flowers outside Croxley Sports ShopFlowers outside Croxley Sports Shop

Bunches of flowers and tributes piled up for the businessman and Watford FC fan.

Helen wrote: “We will all really miss you Cliff, our favourite paper boy.

“You certainly brightened up our day with your lovely smile.  Such a wonderful kind man with a heart of gold. RIP Cliffy.”

Abdulraheem Khalifah said: “R.I.P. Cliff and thank you for all the flags and badges that you stuck on my football shirt. I only ever came to you and you will be missed big man. From the West Ham Postman.”

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Another person, Raman, said: “He was the most friendly, happy, jolly, positive. He talks in (an) amazing manner to in any person who enter his shop.”

Watford Observer: Many paid their respects to CliffMany paid their respects to Cliff

Watford FC Academy director Richard Johnson said: “So sad to hear the news that Cliffy has passed away.

“I have personally known Cliff since I was a youth team player here at the club. He absolutely loved the football club and he represented everything the club was about."

The former player added: “He always spoke about the values and the community spirit that Graham Taylor entrenched in every player that played for the club."

Watford Observer: Cliff recently was in awe after a community-backed campaign helped him keep his store open when it was on the brink of closureCliff recently was in awe after a community-backed campaign helped him keep his store open when it was on the brink of closure

Meanwhile his family launched a fundraising page dedicated to Cliff to thank Peace Hospice Care for their support in his last days.

The description reads: “Cliff Vassiliou was a man dedicated to family, his community and to anyone with whom he engaged.

“Whether within Croxley Green, Watford FC, Rickmansworth, the Cypriot community or any of the many families with which Cliff was involved, Cliff has left a lasting impact that will be felt for ever.”

Thanks to the hospice, Cliff was able to stay at home surrounded by family as he “passed with dignity and immersed in love”.

As a result, the family wish to pay back the charity as a fitting tribute to Cliff’s life and generous spirit.

Anyone wishing to donate to the fundraiser should visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Cliff-Vassiliou?utm_source=Sharethis&utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=Cliff-Vassiliou&utm_campaign=pfp-email&utm_term=004fc6c6705f46b6817d3642dff67fad.