A POPULAR resident known as the “bird man of Leytonstone” has died aged 81.

Dennis Cottam, of Barclay Road, Leytonstone, died at Whipps Cross University Hospital on March 21, after being taked ill following a knee operation.

Mr Cottam was known in the community for raising money for charities and helping to promote community events, such as Leytonstone Festival.

But he was also recognisable by many for feeding the birds outside Leytonstone Tube station.

Julie Stephenson, 53, a shop assistant of Church Lane, Leytonstone, and friend of Mr Cottam, said: “Dennis was brought up in a children's home and had no brothers or sisters or family, yet he was a shining light in Leytonstone.

“Having lost a leg in the early nineties, he was always around on his scooter doing local fund raising, and helping put a smile on residents' faces.

“He would feed the pigeons daily at the station entrance in Leytonstone and became known as the bird man of Leytonstone, because as he approached the birds they seemed to recognise him even before he put out the seed.

“He was a warm, loving and gentle old man, who helped many.”

The former labourer became ill in February following a knee operation and was admitted to Whipps Cross after a fall at home.

Ms Stephenson said: “He was tired and said he felt old. He will be sorely missed.”

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