A WELL-known former Worces-tershire licensee, described as a larger-than-life character, has died suddenly aged 54.

Kenny Powell ran a number of pubs in the county as well as a brasserie in Worcester before moving onto his latest venture - the Parrot in Cheltenham.

His parents ran the Crown at Wychbold, near Droitwich, and Mr Powell was involved in the licensed trade all his life.

His close friend and former business partner Dave Lloyd, licensee of the Coach and Horses in the Upper Tything, Worcester, said: "He was full of life and great company to be with. He was a great raconteur, a great landlord and a good friend."

Paul Soden, who used to run the Jolly Roger Brewery in Worces-ter and was one of Kenny's best friends, said: "It was privilege and pleasure to have known him. He was a top bloke."

Mr Powell was well-known for running the Chequers at Cutnall Green, near Droitwich, and was a great friend of the late John Bonham, drummer to Led Zeppelin. After selling the Chequers in the 1980s he bought a tea-room in Friar Street, Worcester, with Mr Lloyd and turned it into Blakes Brasserie.

He also ran the Slug and Lettuce and the Exchange, both in the Cornmarket, Worcester; and the White Hart, Hartlebury.

Mr Powell, who lived in Droitwich and was due to marry later this year, died on Sunday, May 6, after a heart attack in the night. He leaves his fiancee Kim Nixon, three children and two grandchildren.

His funeral takes place at Worcester Cathedral tomorrow.