Tributes have been paid to a Pembrokeshire character affectionately known as the ‘mini man’ who spent several years living in the open air beside Kilgetty and Begelly roundabout.

Dyfed-Powys Police is investigating the sudden death of the man who has been named locally as Henry, after concerns for his welfare were raised on Saturday morning (November 28) and sadly, a body was found near the Kilgetty roundabout a short while later.

Henry was aged in his 60s, and often seen on or near Kilgetty roundabout. He earned his nickname due to the time he previously spent living in a mini car in a layby nearby the roundabout.

Local DJ and Pembrokeshire football stalwart Steve Briers who lives in the locality, took to social media to pay tribute to the ‘Mini man’.

“Henry was affectionately nicknamed the mini man many many years ago, a good 25-30 years as he first lived in a mini parked by the now closed access to the old tip,” he said.

“Apparently this ’residence’ was not to last as the mini was not taxed, so Henry just made his home right there by the roundabout where he had lived in his mini, and he remained there ever since!

“He was clearly rock hard to survive living outdoors for three decades and never accepted any help or gifts of bikes or clothing from anyone.

“He was a loner, completely independent, and clearly happy with this lifestyle. He never troubled anyone.

“A Kilgetty legend and he never even knew it! However, clearly he wasn’t bothered. He was his own man and just lived his life as he wanted to,” added Steve.

With the sad news of Henry passing away, local residents took to Facebook over the weekend to try and plan a fitting way to pay tribute in the community, with suggestions that perhaps a local sculpture or artist could design a piece that could be erected on the island roundabout.

“Something simple that we all could associate with even if it’s just his bike which is what many remember him by,” wrote Neil Bates.

Police have appealed for anyone with information that could help piece together the circumstances surrounding Henry’s death, which is being treated as unexplained, to contact them.

Though formal identification has not yet taken place, the man’s next of kin has been informed. HM Coroner is also aware.

Anyone with information that could help officers with their investigation is asked to report it to Dyfed-Powys Police, either online at: bit.ly/DPPContactOnline, by emailing [email protected], or by calling 101.

If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired text the non-emergency number on 07811 311 908. Quote reference: DP-20201128-076.