A homeless shelter which provided accommodation for a ‘much-loved’ High Wycombe man who died at the start of the month has paid tribute.

Edward ‘Eddie’ McDonald, 57, was found responsive at the Old Tea Warehouse along Amersham Hill on Sunday, May 5.

He had not long woken up from a deep sleep and was seen speaking to people, but passed away a few hours later from an alleged haemorrhage. 

Forensic and police officers attended the scene that Bank Holiday Weekend, with the authorities not leaving the site until the early hours of the following day.

Since his sudden passing, hundreds of tributes have been left for Mr McDonald both online and in person, as an impromptu memorial has been put up outside the town’s Iceland branch along the High Street.

This was where the Chelsea FC fan would sit on a daily basis and speak to members of the public about their day, along with stories from his past.

In an official statement, a spokesperson from the Old Tea Warehouse said: “It is with great sadness that we can confirm a resident from Old Tea Warehouse, our supported accommodation service in High Wycombe, passed away on Sunday, May 5.

“Our customer was well-known in the community, and our thoughts and condolences go out to his family, friends and those affected by this upsetting news.

“Our team are offering 1-2-1 support to any of our customers and colleagues affected at this difficult time, including signposting to bereavement services.”

Thames Valley Police have confirmed that they are treating Mr McDonald’s death as ‘non-suspicious’ but ‘unexplained’.

Additionally, a GoFundMe page has been launched in memory of the popular 57-year-old, with the money donated going towards his funeral costs, and a potential memorial bench/plaque.

So far, £515 has been raised, eclipsing the initial £500 target.

To donate, go to www.gofundme.com/f/contribute-towards-eds-memory-and-send-off.

Finally, a celebration of Mr McDonald’s life will take place on Sunday, May 26 at the Three Tuns pub along the High Street.

Members of the public will be able to attend to share their stories, whilst also taking part in a huge balloon release.

It will start at 3pm and finish at 5pm.