Glastonbury has said an emotional farewell to one of its best-known and best-loved characters, with a mural unveiled in the heart of the town to honour Ray Rutter — known to everyone simply as 'Merlin'.

Dozens gathered in the Market Place on Sunday to watch as a huge portrait of Merlin, painted by local artist Tommy, was officially revealed. Friends, residents and visitors were urged to wear blue or dress as wizards in his memory.

Merlin, who died earlier this year aged 77, was a familiar figure outside Glastonbury Abbey and along the High Street, known for his flowing robes, wizard's hat and warm smiles as he offered rune readings to passers-by.

Organiser Gabriel Avalon said the tribute was a true community effort, with local volunteers helping to carefully install the mural onto a listed building with permission for a temporary display. He thanked everyone who had helped to bring the project to life, adding that Merlin's ashes were also present at the event and would be taken to the top of Glastonbury Tor and the Garden of Remembrance later in the day.

As part of the celebration, Glastonbury's dragon drummers performed, and a specially made model of Merlin — nicknamed "the little fella" — will now tour shop windows across the town, with the Heart of the Tribe Gallery first to host it.

Tommy, the artist behind the mural, said painting Merlin had been a "labour of love" and a "blessing", despite the hard work involved.

Speaking at the event, he added that the tribute was a way of giving something back to a man who had touched so many lives.

A separate tribute is also being created at the Glastonbury Community Fridge, where Merlin volunteered for years.

A framed photo will be installed in the refurbished space and a new 'Merlin Award for Outstanding Service' will be launched to recognise volunteers who go above and beyond.

Ray Rutter's journey to Glastonbury was a spiritual one. Originally from the Midlands, he once ran a metaphysical shop, travelled through Spain and Portugal in a "Reiki Bus", and even found himself stranded at Machu Picchu without a passport. It was Glastonbury, however, where he found his true home — and became part of the fabric of the town.

Former town crier David Greenway described him as "very much a part of the furniture of Glastonbury", while others recalled his kindness, friendliness, and constant good humour.

Sunday's celebration ended with a simple chant led by the drummers: "We do, we do, we do believe in wizards" — a fitting tribute to a man who made Glastonbury just a little more magical.