The sister of a much-loved Finchley character is “over the moon” a memorial will be put outside the supermarket where he would sit and chat to passers by every day.

Selina Higgins, 68, wept as she spoke of her joy at discovering a bench and plaque will be installed outside Sainsbury’s in High Road, North Finchley, in memory of her brother, Horace White.

Mrs Higgins told the Times Series: “I’m on a high – it’s so wonderful. Everyone’s love for Horace has given me so much joy. I’m over the moon.”

Born Stanley Alfred White, Horace was a familiar face in the area and was well known for chatting to people in the street, wishing them the “best of luck”.

The 54-year-old died in September 2012 after collapsing outside the Whittington Hospital.

His death sparked a flurry of response on the internet, with more than 10,000 people "liking" a Facebook page entitled RIP Horace.

Last July Barnet Homes also dedicated a garden to his memory in the Grange Estate, East Finchley, where he used to live.

Barnet Borough Council has confirmed it will install the bench and plaque in High Road as part of improvement work in North Finchley.

Mrs Higgins, who lives in Gloucester Road, Edmonton, said: “Horace would love it – especially outside his favourite supermarket.”