Tributes are continuing to flood in for actor — and much-loved member of the Isle of Wight community — Victor Gallucci, following his sudden death.

Vic, as he was more commonly known, died yesterday (Sunday), aged 81.

He was the founder and organiser of the Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza, held on Ryde Esplanade.

Posting on Facebook, the event said it hoped to continue in his honour: "It is with great sadness the team at the Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza have to announce the death of its creator and organiser Victor Gallucci.

Read more: Tributes to Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza's Vic Gallucci

"Obviously, this has come as a terrible shock to us all, but we are hopeful with the backing of Ryde Town Council and our sponsors, the show will go on as planned in Vic’s memory."

Vic also starred as DC Tom Baker in the long-running TV show, The Bill.

Co-star and friend Graham Cole OBE, who played PC Tony Stamp, shared the news on his Facebook account.

While PC Craig Lovell actor, Derek Lyons, paid tribute, saying: "He called me twice a week. We had many talks about him and Peter Sellers who he stood in for. He always wanted updates on the conventions and more.

"I never knew his age. I asked him many times. But when we talked he told me his real age! 81 years young lol!

"He told me tell all I am 57 years old! Lol!

"I will so really miss Victor so very much indeed."

Stuart Morriss, organiser of Misty Moon, which hosts The Bill reunion events, said the next meet-up will be held in Vic's honour.

 

Vic also gained fans for his role as a Rebel Pilot and Stormtrooper in Star Wars: A New Hope. 

Actor and friend John Simpkin said: "He was a hugely popular guy, and will be greatly missed."

 

Islander Paddy McHugh, who worked with Vic at the Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza, said: "He was a absolute gem of a guy to know.

"He came on to my radio show when I was at Vectis Radio many times to talk about his baby that was Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza

"For years Vic fought to put this event on and it grew and grew.

"There was more to Vic than most of you would know, from being a extra in The Bill to being one of the original Storm Troopers in Star Wars and so so much more.

"I know we always had a lot to say Vic, we sang from the same song sheet about the Island and events.

"Gunna miss you mate. Rest easy now my friend."

Ryde Town Council said it is "shocked and overcome with sadness".

A statement said: "Vic was not only a kind-hearted individual but also had the sharpest sense of humour, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. His infectious smile could brighten even the gloomiest of days.

"In honour of Vic's memory and his passion for classic cars, we will be working tirelessly alongside Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza to ensure the classic car show continues as planned. This event will be a tribute to Vic and the immense joy he brought.

"We extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Victor Gallucci's family and friends during this difficult time."

Former County Press reporter Kate Couch, who now works for Mad-AID, said: "I started working with Vic Gallucci when he first brought the Isle of Wight International Charity Classic Car Extravaganza to the Island, and to say he will be sorely missed is an understatement.

"He was a true character – always so full of life and determined to make the show work and raise lots of money for Island charities, no matter what problems he faced in the process.

"As a County Press reporter, one of my favourite memories was when I helped to judge the cars at the 2010 event – I was heavily pregnant with my son at the time.

"I was touched when Vic announced that MAD-Aid – the East Cowes-based charity I now work for – would be the beneficiary of the Saturday show in 2023.

"I hope this year’s show will go ahead on September 9 and 10 as Vic planned – but I know it will be a poignant weekend for me, as I remember all the great times I had with Vic over the past 21 years."