'Bored' Paignton job search man dies aged 91

A man who got a job as a waiter when he was 89 after placing an advert in a local paper saying he was "bored" has died at the age of 91.

Joe Bartley became a local celebrity after taking up the job offer at the Cantina kitchen and bar in Paignton, Devon, in December 2016.

The ex-serviceman retired in March and said the job had cured his boredom.

In a tribute posted on Facebook, the cafe said it would miss his "infectious laugh and incredible zest for life".

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Cantina owner Kate Allen said he had been "a breath of fresh air".

Mr Bartley landed the job in 2016 after posting a plea in his local paper, the Herald Express.

He said he felt lonely after his wife Cassie died two years earlier, and added: "I was bored to death sat here doing nothing not seeing anyone."

When he retired in March, Mr Bartley said the job made him "feel like a working man again".

Following his retirement he still visited Cantina for a coffee or a pint of beer, and Ms Allen said customers still asked about him.

Paying tribute to Mr Bartley on Facebook, Pamela Ladhams said: "A man who proved what a positive mental attitude can do. Thank you Cantina for giving him the chance."

Lyn Malbon added: "RIP Goodbye Joe, been an absolute pleasure knowing this lovely witty funny charming man, very sad news."