Tributes paid to Nev Wilshire as ‘Call Centre’ star dies aged 61

Tributes have been paid to colourful BBC3 The Call Centre star Nev Wilshire who died on Saturday morning aged 61.

Mr Wilshire found fame on the hit BBC reality show based in the Save Britain Money call centre in Swansea in 2013.

The show featured Nev’s unorthodox management style and fondness for singing The Killer’s ‘Mr Brightside’ in meetings, drawing comparisons with Ricky Gervais’ character David Brent in The Office.

TV presenter Hayley Pearce who shot to fame as the Call Centre’s tea lady said Nev was more than a boss to her, and more like family.

In a statement on social media Hayley said: “The memories we made together are ones I will cherish and talk about for the rest of my self.

“The tea lady was born by Nev! And I can’t thank him enough for believing in me. And seeing something in me. He changed my life.

“RIP. Truly gutted. I’ll be playing Mr bloody Brightside all week for you.”

Nev lived in Five Roads near Llanelli in Carmarthenshire. He was a father of four and grandfather to six.

His family issued a statement following his passing: “It is with the greatest of sadness that we announce the death of Neville Wilshire of Five Roads Llanelli, late of Swansea. Much loved Dad of his 4 children, Becci, Jon, Phil and Abi.

“Son of Marian and the late Professor Brian Wilshire. Brother of Ralph and the late Keith Wilshire. Adored Grampy Nev to his 6 wonderful grandchildren. We ask that you respect our privacy during these sad times.

“In Dad’s own words: ‘Look after each other and care for each other. When it all comes down to it at the end of my life, I will not be giving people instructions of details on how to run a successful business, I will be responding to how those around me are.

“The family is very important to me, both my close family and those I share my time with each day. The more you give the more you receive. The heart of the matter is a matter of the heart

“I am by nature a happy person and I do all I can to create a happy environment around me… We all have to take knock backs in life, just get back in the saddle with a smile on your face and ride.’”

(Lead image: BBC)