ULVERSTON "won't be the same again" following the death of a much-loved character.

Daniel Birtwistle passed away on Tuesday at the age of 70 and tributes have been flooding in for the "lovely gentleman" who was well-known in Ulverston.

A service to celebrate his life was held at he Coronation Hall on Thursday.

He was described by his family as "a beloved father, brother, grandfather and friend to many".

Last July his birth was the source of a feature celebrating the anniversary of the NHS as he shared his 70th birthday with the service.

Mr Birtwistle was born at Risedale Maternity Hospital three days after the NHS formed on July 8, becoming one of the first NHS babies in Furness.

"Being one of the first NHS babies in Furness is a great honour. It was only 20 years ago, on the 50th anniversary, that I realised the significance. I've always had a good relationship with the NHS. I've always been very grateful for what they have done," he said last year.

Many have been paying tribute to Mr Birtwistle on Facebook where his dedication led to him being referred to as Mr Ulverston.

Grant Huck wrote: "The family must be absolutely devastated. He was a beautiful person, kind hearted, caring and always up for a good natter.

"He helped out as a friend of Coro and we first met when he was my helper at Santa's grotto in the Market Hall.

"He always spoke so fondly of his family and he loved seeing the younger kids happy at Christmas."