TRIBUTES have poured in for a much-loved chef and pillar of the Highworth community.

Rafu Miah, who was a fixture at Rafu’s on the town’s High Street for more than 30 years, died following a heart attack on Sunday afternoon.

He was just 58 years old.

Rafu was known for his outstanding cooking, earning the title of ‘curry king’ some years ago, but he earned a reputation for making a positive impact far beyond the kitchen.

He was a keen supporter of many local charities, in 2011 he was presented with a Melvin Jones Award by the Highworth and District Lions Club.

The award was in recognition for his dedication to humanitarian services in the community.

Originally from Bangladesh, Rafu first came to Swindon in the late seventies and opened his restaurant shortly after.

His son Omar, 26, who also works in the family business, told how his dad had an early start in the cooking business.

“He started working at 18 in his grandad’s restaurant in Twickenham,” said Omar.

“Then one day he was driving down the M4 and took a pit stop in Swindon – he fell in love with Highworth and decided to stay.”

Rafu’s was originally opened as Biplob but was later renamed to avoid confusion with another restaurant of the same name.

It has become a well-known feature on the south west’s curry map, thanks in no small part to the efforts of Rafu and his brother Safu.

Among many awards, in 2013 they were chosen from thousands of other restaurants across the country to be included in the Cobra Good Curry Guide.

Omar said: “He loved Highworth, he saw three generations of his family grow up there.

“I’m shocked by how much of a response there has been from the community and all our friends.

“I picked up three handfuls of cards from the restaurant this morning, people left flowers too.

“My sister Naheda and I are so very thankful for all the messages and the support, please keep my dad in your prayers.”

The tributes to Rafu on social media have come from far and wide but it is the impact he had on those in the tight knit Highworth community that has been most strongly reflected.

Lifelong resident of the town, Josie Barrington-McGregor, wrote: “He didn't just own the best Indian restaurant, he was a pillar of the community and a friend to so many.

“His generosity and thoughtful, caring nature will be truly missed.”

Pete Cook wrote: “Very sad news indeed. Raf was not just a fantastic chef, he was very much a gentleman too.

“He was so much a part of the local community and Highworth will certainly be a poorer place with his passing.”

One resident was so moved by Rafu’s passing that she has set up a fundraising page to pay for a memorial to him in the town, ideas include a bench on the High Street.

Within hours of its launch, the page had nearly £300 with more donations expected.

It can be found here: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/kerry-cope?utm_id=66&utm_term=vmdY5WRxa