Tributes paid to chimneysweep Vic

Described by his family as a ‘huge character with a huge heart who would make you laugh’ he ran the 50-year-old family-run heating firm business Vic Crompton Ltd, Wigan Road, Leyland. Previously it had been based in Euxton.

Vic, of Euxton, was a Master Chimney Sweep and Honorary Vice President of the National Association of Chimney Sweeps.

He also ran a drains business.

In a eulogy, his family said: “He touched the hearts of everyone, whether it be sweeping chimney’s, telling stories when having a pint in the pub, seeing him riding his rickshaw bikes and motor bike trike, putting out the Christmas lights for charity, even turning them on in Chorley - he was well known, loved and respected by many.

“Recently, Christmas time, spontaneously, he went riding around Chorley on his rickshaw wishing friends and work colleagues a merry Christmas and passing out lottery tickets to all he met, just because he wanted to.

“He would always give out a helping hand to those who needed it and also was well known for having his own opinion and loved a good old discussion, about anything.

“A strong family man, who loved his wife, Rita, dearly - 57 years of marriage and not a day went by without a good old tussle but also so much love, laughter and fun.

“He was so proud of his daughters Maria, Anita and darling Sonia, but constantly and mischievously pulled their legs, the father daughter bond was totally unbreakable.

“His son-in-law, Trevor, had a brilliant relationship with Vic especially spending hours with Vic in the garage with his multitude of bikes/cars/boats etc. and helping with his fish in his pond.

“Many an hour and many a glass or two. Christmas Day was a favourite for all of us. A family feast with fun, fantastic food, cooked by our very own Val, it wasn’t just dad who loved Val’s cooking, all of us together, his and all of our favourite thing to do.”

It continued: “Vic’s family meant everything to him, both near and far, he would move heaven and earth to do all he could for them.

“He also cared deeply for everyone who workedd for the family business his lads and girls.

“His “lads” are loyal, hardworking and have achieved so much with his help and guidance and he was so very proud of them.

“As the years took the toll on his body, the lads would constantly help him in his garden moving big pots, power washing digging holes etc etc.

“A huge help to him, the proud man who wanted to do it all.

“A founder member of The National Association of Chimney Sweeps, Vic had many a late evening with his friends of the NAGS at the AGM meetings, which really did last days.

“He formed some very special friendships, Dave Donald, Ron Clarke, Martin, Charlie Dunn (who comes over each year from America to stay and go to these AGMs) and there are many, many more, far too many to mention personally.

“He loved being a chimney sweep and all the interesting people he met through it.

Vic died on Sunday, May 1.

His funeral will be held at Charnock Richard Crematorium, Preston Road, on Friday, May 13, at 2pm.

Family flowers only, with donations to Derian House, Air Ambulance or a charity of your own choice.