THE tragic death of Les Hole after an accident at his place of work has hit many people in West Oxfordshire hard.

Mr Hole was a popular figure in the village where he lived, Freeland, but tributes have also come in from people throughout the district who knew him for his sporting achievements and through his work.

All have spoken highly of the 52-year-old, not just of his sporting skills but also his willingness to help others and his caring nature.

The father-of-three was involved in sports teams in the area for much of his life and it is through this that he is best known, and for the legacy he leaves in his two sons, who captain leading cricket and football teams in the district.

His friends have told how he was known affectionately by many villagers as Mr Freeland.

He and his wife Sally earlier this year celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary and he leaves three children he was clearly very proud of.

Mr Hole had worked for Smiths of Bletchingdon for about 25 years and the company said he was a well-respected member of their staff and with employees of other companies he came into contact with through his job.

He touched the lives of many people and it is a tragedy such a full life has been cut short so suddenly.