A Kingston hero who recently died is to be remembered with a memorial bench after a crowd fund nearly raised the entire amount needed  in just one day.

Moses Jon N’Kanor was known to many for his personal warmth and eccentric outfits, and would often walk around the borough brightening people’s days.

Sadly, he died aged 61 on November 11, but it was not until last week that the wider public became aware.

New Malden resident James Giles, who set up the crowd fund, said: “He was a neighbour of mine, living just a few roads away. We always bumped into him.

“He was such a character, and it’s very sad that he’s passed away.

“People said to me that we need something to remember him by. Some people even suggested a statue, which shows how highly he was thought of.

“He touched so many people’s lives, and I thought a bench – with a cost of £1,750 – was pretty achievable, so decided to crowd fund it.”

Within 24 hours, almost £1,500 had been raised in donations, which ranged from £5 to £100, and now the full target has been exceeded.

Mr Giles said: “I have been absolutely blown away. In a day, we were nearly there.”

The bench, which has been given permission by Kingston Council, will be put up in New Malden, where Moses lived.

But because he lived in Georgia Road – a cul-de-sac – it will likely be in New Malden High Street, by the Fountain Roundabout, or in Kingston Road Recreation Ground.

To donate to the crowd fund, visit gofundme.com/moses-of-kingston-memorial-bench.