Roger Asling, from Dorking, has revealed what happened in the final moments of the much-loved creature's life.

Mr Asling, who was parked in St Martin's car park at the time of his death, said: "He came waddling down the steps and then he just ran out into the road and a small post van came around the bend.

"He tried to get out of the way but got caught under a wheel.

"I had heard about him a lot but it was the first time I had seen him.

"I don't think the driver even saw him and then a 4x4 ran over him afterwards.

"I was just gobsmacked.

"I finally saw him and then in five seconds he was gone."

The squirrel has been mourned by many in the town and further afield.

But Cathy Santoro, from Hart Road, Dorking, who loved the squirrel she called Cyril, does not blame the driver for his death.

She said: "I think the person who ran him over him may not have known about it.

"It's a terrible shame. I think Cyril may have taken a chance and ran across the road and got caught under one of the van's back wheels.

"I have sympathy towards the driver. I don't think he would have struck him on purpose.

"Cyril was so beautiful. I went to feed him every day. He was like a child to me.

"People are talking about a plaque for him and I really hope that is organised soon because we must not forget him."

A spokesman for the Royal Mail did not wish to comment.