News

Much-loved Exeter vendor Graham Hoile has died

The 67-year-old, who was known as 'Paddy' to his regular customers, had been selling The Big Issue magazine since 1992

Graham Hoile

We are saddened to report that popular Exeter Big Issue vendor Graham Hoile has died.

The veteran seller, known as ‘Paddy’ by his regular customers, has sold the magazine since 1992 and became a huge part of the local community in a decade of selling outside Heavitree Co-op in the Devon city.

Before his spell on that pitch, Graham had previously sold the magazine in St Austell and in London.

Graham Hoile
Graham-Hoile-tribute
Tributes have been left on Graham's pitch outside Heavitree Co-op

He tragically died aged 67 on May 26 after being struck by a train.

Touching tributes have been placed on his pitch in the wake of Graham’s death.

Big Issue sales and outreach worker in Exeter Sarah Parkhouse said: “Graham was a well-liked and respected member of the community. Rain or shine he would be selling the magazine without a grumble and often a story to tell.

“Well respected by fellow vendors in Exeter, friends and the general public, Graham will be sorely missed by all.”

Graham had been street homeless and had battled alcohol addiction for many years.

However in the last two years of his life, the Irishman had managed to quit drinking as well as finding a place in supported living.

His newfound sobriety enabled him to focus on his passion for cycling and he managed to save £1,000 of his earnings from selling The Big Issue magazine to pay for an electric bike.

Graham Hoile tribute
Graham-Hoile-tribute-1
One of Graham's regular customers left a poem on his pitch in the Irishman's memory

And Sarah recalled that Graham was proud of his progress in beating his demons.

She added: “I remember talking to him once on his pitch, someone approached him offering him a can of beer. Proudly and clearly, he said, “No thank you Sir, I’ve not touched a drop for over a year”.”

Graham’s funeral will take place at Exeter and Devon Crematorium on June 25, starting at noon.

Support the Big Issue

For over 30 years, the Big Issue has been committed to ending poverty in the UK. In 2024, our work is needed more than ever. Find out how you can support the Big Issue today.
Vendor martin Hawes

Recommended for you

View all
I started doing crime by age 6. I didn't know any other life – all my birthdays were in prison
Crime

I started doing crime by age 6. I didn't know any other life – all my birthdays were in prison

Local housing allowance is finally going up. But is it anything more than just a short-term fix?
Jeremy Hunt announced local housing allowance rise
Benefits

Local housing allowance is finally going up. But is it anything more than just a short-term fix?

Calls to nationalise Thames Water as Brits face 40% increase in bills: 'A con and a disgrace'
Water bills

Calls to nationalise Thames Water as Brits face 40% increase in bills: 'A con and a disgrace'

Will free school meals and vouchers be offered over the Easter holidays?
Free school meals/ Easter holidays
Free school meals

Will free school meals and vouchers be offered over the Easter holidays?

Most Popular

Read All
Renters pay their landlords' buy-to-let mortgages, so they should get a share of the profits
Renters: A mortgage lender's window advertising buy-to-let products
1.

Renters pay their landlords' buy-to-let mortgages, so they should get a share of the profits

Exclusive: Disabled people are 'set up to fail' by the DWP in target-driven disability benefits system, whistleblowers reveal
Pound coins on a piece of paper with disability living allowancve
2.

Exclusive: Disabled people are 'set up to fail' by the DWP in target-driven disability benefits system, whistleblowers reveal

Here's when UK households to start receiving last cost of living payments
next dwp cost of living payment 2023
3.

Here's when UK households to start receiving last cost of living payments

Strike dates 2023: From train drivers to NHS doctors, here are the dates to know
4.

Strike dates 2023: From train drivers to NHS doctors, here are the dates to know