Tributes have been paid to a community champion described as the ‘life and soul of the party’.

Don Bailey died suddenly of a heart attack on April 12.

The 68-year-old from Poynton was a popular, well known member of the community as the president of the local branch of the British Legion and Poynton Show, and a keen member of Poynton Blues Manchester City supporters.

Don, of London Road, leaves behind his sister, Mary, brothers Ian and Andrew, wife Elaine, daughter Karen and grandson Ben, 14.

His funeral is due to take place at St George’s Church, Poynton, on Thursday, April 28, at 3pm, on what would have been his 69th birthday.

Paying tribute his daughter Karen, 44, said: “So many people will remember dad for his involvement in the community. He was a real card - the life and soul of the party. He will be sorely missed.”

Don was Poynton born and bred. The eldest of seven children he was a member of the Bailey family which owned the successful woodyard.

At 15 Don joined the Royal Navy and for 12 years travelled the world on HMS Intrepid and HMS Triumph.

He met and married his first wife Christine and had two children Karen and David.

Tragically, David died of a heart condition when he was just 19.

After the navy the family settled back in Poynton where Don tried many occupations including shopkeeper, taxi driver and salesman.

After Don’s first marriage ended he met Elaine and they were married for 24 years.

Don was renowned for enjoying a tipple, but gave up alcohol nine years ago after a serious health scare.

With a new lease of life he devoted himself to fundraising and supporting the British Legion and was the president of the Poynton Show.

His community work earned him the Poynton Civic Award in 2013 - one of his proudest moments.

Don was happiest cheering on his beloved team all over Europe and organised coach trips for the Poynton Blues. It was on a coach heading home from watching the quarter-finals of the Champions League that he suffered a heart attack.

Karen added: “Dad died doing what made him happiest. That he was happy in his last moments brings us great comfort.”

Elaine, 63, describe Don as her ‘soul mate’.