Tributes have been paid to a “gentle, caring” taxi driver following his sudden death.

William Simson, 62 died on February 15 when he suffered a cardiac arrest in Tesco car park in Pitsea.

A desperate attempt was made to save Mr Simpson before paramedics arrived.

Mr Simson, from South Benfleet, who was nicknamed “Waving Willie” for the way he always greeted colleagues, was revived by an ambulance crew at the scene but suffered a second heart attack as he arrived at the hospital.

His heartbroken sister, Jan Simpson, 58 from Bury St Edmonds said: “A passerby saw him slumped over the wheel and he opened the door to help him.

"I believe he performed CPR. There were also two first aiders from Tesco helping to keep him alive.

“Sadly he passed away as he reached the hospital.

“My brother was a gentle, caring, sweet man. There is nothing he wouldn’t do for anyone. We will miss him so much.”

Mr Simson’s 91-year-old mother Peggy added: “They say there is no greater love than a mother – how true that is.”

Mr Simson’s partner Jackie Waylen also paid tribute. She said: “Will was a lovely, caring man who looked after me and my family, he was like a father to my children and a grandfather to my grandchildren. He has left a big hole in our lives. He will be missed so very much.”

Tributes also poured in on social media for the well-known cabbie.

AC Taxis issued a statement on its Facebook page which said: “It’s with great sadness that I announce the passing of one of our drivers. William Simpson had been a AC Taxi driver for around 20 years.

“He got his nickname Waving Willie as he waved at every taxi driver that went past. Rest in Peace Will, you will be missed by many.”

Tributes flooded the post with many colleagues and customers sharing their sadness at the announcement.

One Facebook user wrote: “He was a proper gentleman. You couldn’t have met a nicer guy. Rest in Peace Will, you will be greatly missed.”

His personality clearly touched the lives of many as another colleague wrote: “Such sad news, I’ve got some great memories of him on the charity bike rides we all did. I always enjoyed the chats. Rest in Peace Will.”

Another customer commented: “I remember him giving me a lift once – I think I may have messaged AC taxis commending him for what he done. What a shame, Rest in Peace Will.”

Mourners have since placed flowers on the bonnet of Mr Simpson’s taxi.

AC thanked people for their tributes saying: “Thanks to all who showed their respect to our driver Will.”

A former waitress at The Meadowlark in Shoebury recalls serving William most Monday evenings. She asked not to be named but said: “It’s so sad, I didn’t know him personally I recognised him from the picture on Facebook. He was lovely to serve.”