Don Ritchie, the man dubbed "the angel of the gap" has passed away, at the age of 85. He passed away peacefully and was surrounded by friends and family. Mr Ritchie lived near The Gap at Watson's Bay for over five decades and in that time he talked at least 160 people out of committing suicide.

Mr Ritchie lived near The Gap at Watsons Bay for over five decades and in that time he talked at least 160 people out of committing suicide.

In his younger days, Mr Ritchie used to physically restrain people who were about to jump whilst his wife, Moya, called the police.

In his later years Mr Ritchie offered a cup of tea and a chat.

Father Tony Doherty from Rose Bay Parish was a good friend of Mr Ritchie's and he spoke to Richard Glover on 702 ABC Sydney's Drive program.

"I met him forty years ago. It was at Watsons Bay, I was driving home at about 1am. There were a group of guys at the Gap. I edged my way in tentatively... Here's a figure who was was lying down on his stomach, talking to a terrified little Vietnamese chap, who was just over the edge and threatening to jump. I watched this figure gradually encourage him to come back to the safety of the cliff.. He has this wonderful soft, appealing voice that encouraged this little fellow not to jump, it turned out to be Don" Said Fr Doherty.

Last year, Mr Ritchie was named Australia's Local Hero for 2011, a great recognition for his brave and inspiring efforts.

At the time, Mr Ritchie said, "Never be afraid to speak to those who you feel are in need. Always remember the power of the simple smile, a helping hand, a listening ear and a kind word."

Diane Gaddin, a suicide prevention advocate who had a daughter who died at the Gap also spoke to Richard Glover about her memories of Mr Ritchie.

"He was a unique man...he is a beacon and inspiration to not only us in Australia but the world because it takes courage, bravery, tenacity..standing on the cliff edge and encouraging someone not to take the final step...he was a gentle, persuasive man who offered them hope with warm, embracing words."

Mrs Gaddin also said that Mr Ritchie would say "I was a salesman for most of my life, and I sold them life."

Mr Ritchie had this simple advice to give when asked about what he said to people at The Gap,

"Smile. Be friendly and say can I help you in some way."

This wonderful man of Sydney will be remembered fondly and greatly missed.