A man who devoted his time to helping people with mobility problems has died suddenly at home.

Robert Chapman, known to many as Bob, volunteered for Stevenage Shopmobility for about 14 years.

The charity provides wheelchairs and electric scooters to anyone with walking difficulties, to enable them to access facilities within Stevenage town centre.

Mr Chapman, who lived alone in Ashdown Road in Stevenage, died last Thursday at the age of 71 and leaves behind two daughters. The cause of his death is not yet known.

Gerald Dunston, a fellow Stevenage Shopmobility volunteer, said: “He was involved [with the charity] for about 14 years, and over the last eight years he was the main mechanic and technician. I don’t think he missed a day.

“He was a very friendly person and would help anybody if he could. He was a kind man.

“He’s going to be deeply missed by a lot of people.

“He’s irreplaceable - a great loss to Stevenage Shopmobility.

“Thanks Bob, for everything.”