HUNDREDS of tributes have flooded in to toast the memory of a young father who tragically fell to his death from a derelict building in Warminster.

Police were called to the scaffolding-covered building in the High Street on Sunday at around 3.20am, after they had concerns for 24-year-old Anthony Holton's safety.

On arrival, officers attempted to speak to the Warminster man and talk him down but as he tried to get down, he fell and died at the scene by St Laurence Chapel. 

Since then, hundreds of floral tributes, cards, beer cans, sports shirts and candles have been placed at the spot where the former Matravers School pupil fell.

High Street resident Ernest Harrison, who knew him for 12 years, said: “It is horrible to think that I saw him just the night before. So many people are just devastated by this awful news. He was the captain of the pool and darts team at the Anchor Hotel and he was a lovely lad, just like his brother Ryan.”

Mark Faint, managing director of roofing company MJ Faint, where he worked, said: “We have sent a letter of condolence to the family. It was lovely getting to know Anthony over the five years he worked here as a general labourer. 

“He had a great review from a customer on Friday and was in a good mood when he said he would see me on Monday. It is all very sad, he will be sorely missed.”

Players from Westbury Rugby Club gathered at St Laurence Chapel to sign a team shirt and raise a glass to their former teammate, and on Wednesday evening, dozens of friends and family met at Westbury Labour Club for some karaoke, a favourite pastime of his. 

Mr Holton had a three-year-old daughter with his ex-wife. 

Nick Taylor posted on Facebook: “I still can’t believe it. RIP Anthony Holton, thank you for always being there for me. I will make sure Ryan Holton stays strong and does you proud. No words. My heart is with the whole family.”

Gaz Welsh added: “Anthony Holton was like a brother to me always there for me can’t believe and still can’t get my head around this gonna miss the nights and memories, sweetcorn, Norbit, Karaoke, oh so many I’ll treasure. R.I.P mate, love you man.”

Wiltshire Police have sought advice from the Independent Police Complaints Commission and confirm that a referral will be made in relation to the incident.

For years residents have been asking for the scaffolding to be taken down, claiming it’s an eyesore.

In April, Huy Nguyen put in an application to Wiltshire Council to refurbish the front of the building, create two new shops with four flats above and to create a new residential development of five buildings.

A decision is expected in August.