Former Marlborough and Pewsey reporter Nigel Kerton said: “One friend remarked to me that Colin was ‘one of the best’ but she was wrong; he was the very best.

“From a reporter's point of view he was a dream to work with and would listen patiently during interviews, often weighing in at the end with overlooked questions. The small band of brothers that is the local press has lost a true friend.”

Ex-Wiltshire Times chief photographer Dave Bunton said: “I knew Colin Kearley for over 50 years. He was one of the hardest working, most conscientious photographers I ever worked with.

“He knew almost everyone and was always courteous and polite. He was Mr Gazette.”

Former Devizes Mayor Jim Thorpe said: “He was a fine, kind and generous man, well respected by the community at large. He will be sorely missed.”

Ex-Gazette reporter Terry Gaylard said: “He was a very skilled photographer and nothing was beyond his abilities. He had a very pleasant personality and we always got on extremely well.”

Former Swindon Advertiser photographer Chris Selby said: “Dear old Colin and I went to photography evening classes at the college in Swindon when we were teenagers, so I’ve known him for about 56 years I reckon.

“He will be sadly missed by all who knew him.”

Devizes mayor Coun Pete Smith said: “Colin was well-known and liked by everyone in the town and I would like to extend my condolences and those of the town council to everyone at the Gazette.”

Gazette reporter Lewis Cowen said: “Colin was the last of his line. He was not just a photographer. He was a member of the community and a wonderful source of information as well as a wonderful friend.”