FRIENDS of a well known Witney IT worker who died after collapsing have paid tribute to his kindness and intelligence.

Grant Bennett collapsed in Church Lane on Friday and was declared dead at the scene at around 11pm.

The 42-year-old, who was born in Minster Lovell, moved to Witney as a teenager and lived with his mother Jean in Gloucester Place.

Friend Sam Flynn, of Wadard’s Meadow, Witney, said: “Grant was one of the best friends I ever had, he would have done anything for anyone. He was the kindest man I ever met. I will love and miss him eternally.”

A memorial page has been set up on social networking website Facebook.

The former Burford School pupil was known around the town from his time working at House Wong, in High Street, 25 years ago and as a barman at the Hollybush, in Corn Street.

He worked for the Vale of White Horse District Council for the past 20 years as an ICT support assistant.

Mr Bennett formerly lived in Wadard’s Meadow with a long-term girlfriend, but moved in with his mother when his father died three years ago.

He was the youngest of five children.

Ms Flynn, 28, who had known Mr Bennett for the past 12 years, said: “He was a selfless man who cared about other people more than he cared about himself.

“He liked to have fun and to be the centre of the action, the life and soul of the party.”

Mr Bennett, who did not have children, was a regular at The Plough Inn, in High Street.

Landlord Guy Ripley said: “He was a real gentleman.”

Mr Bennett was also a big fan of music acts Nightwish, Blondie, Iron Maiden and Alice Cooper.

Jo Hawkley, 46, who met Mr Bennett four years ago at a house warming party, said: “He was an absolute true gentleman in every way, he was generous to a fault and would do anything for you.

“He loved his music, he was an absolute computer expert, he was very into history and science and was the most intelligent bloke you would ever meet.

“You could talk to him about anything, his brain was huge, he reminded me of Stephen Fry.”

Paul Parsons, who worked with Mr Bennett at the district council, said: “I am going to miss my buddy.”

A date for his funeral has not yet been set.

David Buckle, chief executive at the district council, said: “Grant was a popular member of staff who often went out of his way to help colleagues.

“He will be sorely missed by all his friends at the Vale.”

l Following Mr Bennett’s death a 33-year-old man from Witney was arrested on suspicion of harassment and possession of class A drugs.

He has been bailed until Sunday, June 20, to appear at Abingdon police station.