Nev Wilshire dead: Star of BBC reality series The Call Centre dies

Star of BBC 's The Call Centre, Nev Wilshire, has died at the age of 61.

The Welsh businessman and public speaker is best known for appearing in the fly-on-the-wall documentary, died last night.

The circumstances behind his tragic passing are unknown at this point, as the sad news was confirmed by his former colleague, WalesOnline reports.

Hayley Pearce also starred on the Call Centre alongside Nev, posted a moving tribute on Twitter.

The former tea lady wrote: "He was more than a boss to me. He was like family. The memories we made together are ones I will cherish and talk about for the rest of my life.

"I can't thank him enough for believing in me. He changed my life. RIP. Truly gutted."

Nev was described by the BBC as "a boss quite unlike any other."

A bio of him read: "Whether he’s leading his new recruits in a sing-a-long to One Direction, kicking footballs at naughty sales agents in the butt stocks, or encouraging his staff to write poetry – Nev is a boss with an unique style of management all his own.

"A die hard Swansea City fan and season ticket holder, Nev was born and bred in Swansea and wouldn’t move anywhere else for all the money in the World. He describes himself as one of the good guys, like Napoleon..."

Tributes poured in following news of his death.

One person said on Twitter: "RIP Nev, you was one hell of a Nice guy and put Swansea on the Map"

Another wrote: "Saddened to hear Big Nev Wilshire died last night from Covid. When I wasn't down the Swans as a kid I was watching him banging in goals for my local Welsh League team Briton Ferry Athletic. RIP Nev."

A third posted: "Rest in peace to the Welsh legend Nev Wilshire. The man was amazing in BBC’s The Call Centre and was a genuinely decent man who’d help anyone out. Sad day for Wales."

Someone who used to work for him penned: "Sorry to Hear my old Boss Nev Wilshire has passed away. Had some funny times with Nev at The Callcentre Sending Condolences to Nevs family RIP"

People also noted that Nev did a lot for charity.

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