Funeral details for Darlington's Pete 'the sweep' Woodmansey

Peter Woodmansey swept the streets of the town for 35 years before officially retiring over 20 years ago – but he continued to clean every day.

He died peacefully at his home in Dinsdale Crescent, Darlington on July 19, aged 86.

Mr Woodmansey continued to get up at 4am every day, despite leaving his council job in 2001, donning his overalls and hi-vis vest to pick up litter and keep the town tidy.

Read more: Tributes to dedicated Darlington legend 'Pete the Sweep' after death

It was as a street sweeper where Pete found his passion after developing an insatiable eagerness to keep his community clean.

"He was simply one of a kind," said Julie Whitehouse, a friend of 40 years. "He was a proper gentleman, and someone who always wanted to be a celebrity.

"He loved to make a difference to people. I would walk through the town centre and he would engage with everybody. The work he did in the community, keeping every clean and tidy was amazing.

"He touched a lot of people’s lives in a very simple way. He was very well loved, respected and thought about."

A funeral service will be held at St John the Evangelist Church, Neasham Road, on Wednesday, August 3 at 1pm, followed by a private cremation. The funeral cortege will leave Dinsdale Crescent at around 12.30pm, taking the short walk to St John’s Church.

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Neighbours and friends are invited to walk behind the hearse or line the route along the pavement to the church.

Julie added: “I know that Peter would want everyone there, so please, if Peter touched your life in any way, no matter how small, please come along and help us make this celebration of his life as special as Peter himself.”

People have also been asked to wear something red, white or blue in honour of Peter’s love for the Union Jack colours.

Pete's selfless work has inspired dozens of residents to get involved with community activities and initiatives

Donations, if desired, may be sent for St Teresa’s Hospice (Rapid Response) c/o Whitehouse Funeral Service here.

Pete’s selfless work has inspired dozens of residents to get involved with community activities and initiatives, and Julie believes people are willing to follow in his footsteps as community champions for Darlington. 

Readers of The Northern Echo also paid tribute to him after his death. Maureen Mitchell said: “Rest in peace Peter. A pleasure to have known you. Always a smile and a great chat.”

Angela Wood added: “We will never get another one like you Peter. Loved all the chats you still worked hard when you retired. RIP Peter, will be missed by the full town.”

And Mandy Bond said: “The streets will miss you and heaven has gained a real gent keep up the good work in heaven and it will be a lot cleaner.”

Peter Woodmansey swept the streets of the town for 35 years before officially retiring over 20 years ago

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