A well-respected estate agent in Essex has died days after announcing his cancer diagnosis.

Tributes have been paid to Brian McGovern, a “popular and well-loved” estate agent who worked in and around the Chelmsford area for quite some time.

McGovern, who ran McGovern & Co estate agents, was also a homeless campaigner and founded the community organisation, Cool to be Kind. It was a group dedicated to helping the homeless community in Essex.

Sadly, McGovern shared a post to his estate agents page last week informing people he had cancer and would need to take some time away from work.

In a tribute shared yesterday, McGovern & Co said: “We are shocked and saddened to share the news that Brian has passed away. Whether it was his work with the local homeless community, friends in the pub, selling houses or simply being ‘Mr Moulsham’, Brian was such a popular and well-loved character.

“He recently announced that he had been diagnosed with cancer, however the speed at which things have developed has hit us hard. We send our condolences to his family and close friends and know that it will be difficult for them to process what has happened. Brian will forever be remembered by many in the local community and we will all miss him dearly. Rest In Peace Brian.”

A number of people have left their own tributes to McGovern on the post by his company.

Andy Mckay said: “So very difficult to take this news in today. Brian was taken far too soon but leaves an incredible legacy in terms of support and service to his community. My thoughts are with you and his family.”

Paul Harmer wrote: “I am absolutely gutted! Brian was always a good man. Made me laugh my ass off every single time I was in his company. I’ll be raising a glass later.”

Trefor Davies remarked: “God bless you, Brian. Your selfless attitude to those more needy made you a splendid human being, your name and deeds will be woven into the fabric of our city. Love and condolences to family nearest and dearest. We are left numb.”