The death of a Malvern carpet fitter has left a “gaping hole in the community.”

Tributes have been paid to Mark Doyle, who was known as Carpet, following his death last week.

The Gloster Arms in Merton Road, where Mr Doyle was a much-loved regular, closed for a few days following his death, but has since re-opened.

In recent years, Mr Doyle lived above the Gloster Arms and worked shifts behind the bar - and manager Mandy King said he was the “heart and soul” of the pub.

Malvern Gazette: Mr Doyle lived above the pub and worked behind the barMr Doyle lived above the pub and worked behind the bar (Image: The Gloster Arms)

“He’d been a customer and was an exceptional carpet fitter,” she said. “Then he had a bit of trouble with his rent and we had a spare room upstairs, so he ended up living here.

“I trained him on the bar and he did the odd shift, then more regular shifts.

“He was really funny and he would do anything for you - he’d give you his last penny if he could.

Malvern Gazette: Mr Doyle was a much-loved character at the Gloster ArmsMr Doyle was a much-loved character at the Gloster Arms (Image: The Gloster Arms)

“I called him the Pied Piper because he would attract people - if the bar was quiet, I’d ask him to sort it out and he’d be ringing people up, and he’d get people to come.

“He was a great character, so generous. He was the life and soul. He has left a massive gaping hole in the community - and in my heart.”

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The pub has now reopened as “it’s what Carpet would have wanted” and so customers and friends can come in and raise a glass in memory of Mr Doyle.

Floral tributes have also been left at the Gloster Arms, while Mr Doyle’s Liverpool FC football shirt occupies his favourite seat in the bar.

A tribute to Mr Doyle is also set to appear in the matchday programme of his beloved Liverpool, for their upcoming game against Wolves.

Dozens of tributes have been paid to Mr Doyle on Facebook, with one person saying: “My old drinking partner. Gonna miss that big grin, you were such a kind and loving soul. RIP my mate.”

Another added: “Going to miss you so much, the best roommate and cheekiest man I met.”