TRIBUTES have flooded in for a hugely popular Kendal man who died suddenly, aged 57.

Paul Williams was well known around the town and had a range of interests including road biking and music, and was also involved with charity fundraising for the North West Air Ambulance via the Jump Into Kendal group.

"He knew so many people in Kendal and we couldn't walk through town without people constantly stopping him for a chat," said his son Steven.

Mr Williams was born in the Manchester area but moved up to Kendal with his family when he was 16 and attended Kendal College where he studied catering,

In more recent years, he ran his own mobile car valeting business which he later expanded into vehicle paintwork repairs, and travelled all over Cumbria in the course of his work.

Mr Williams was a motor bike enthusiast in his younger years with a particular interest in Harley Davidsons, and he was also a big fan of Northern Soul music, journeying to events across the area and beyond.

When he was diagnosed with diabetes, it prompted a fitness regime which he kept up with quiet determination, and his keenness for road biking developed in recent years.

His family said he also loved to take photographs and always had a camera in hand ready to record the many events of his active life.

Mr Williams, who was a dedicated and loving family man, leaves a widow, Susan, sons Steven and Michael and six grandchildren.

A measure of the esteem in which he was held is illustrated by his Facebook page, which has this week been overflowing with tributes from friends.

"You were a fantastic guy. Kendal will be lost without you. RIP mate," read a post from Pat Gibson.

"Life can be so cruel. You were one of the best," said Lee Wicks.

"He played a huge part in this town, his family and community. Always active, walking, running, laughing and often taking photos," said Linda Stott, while Michelle Jackson posted: "Lovely, lovely gentleman. No words right now."

His funeral will take place at 11.30am on Tuesday, November 13 at Kendal Parish Church, and Mr Williams' family said everyone was welcome to come to the service and pay their respects.

The service will be followed by a private family burial, but the family said everyone was also welcome to the wake which will take place at Netherfield Cricket Club on Parkside Road.