A WELL-known Worcester newsagent has died suddenly at the age of 52.

David Davies - who ran Comer Road News, in Comer Road, St John's, died in the early hours of Tuesday after a brief battle against cancer.

The former Royal Grammar School student had been the organist and choir master at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, St John's, for 35 years.

In 2002 he was presented with a Papal Medal for musical services to the Catholic Church.

His sister Sue Davies said: "We are all shocked by his sudden, unexpected death and greatly appreciate all the messages of support and condolence. He will be greatly missed by family and friends."

Mr Davies was born in London but moved to the city in 1965 at the age of 10.

For many years he was manager of Mutters Newsagents, St Johns, and Mutters in Malvern Link.

In 2003 he bought his own store in Comer Road.

He was a keen golfer and a member of The Bad Eggs, a golfing society which would meet at Sapey Golf Club.

"He would have won many awards on and off the golf course for his knack of being the last to leave the bar," said his brother Colin Davies.

In his younger years Mr Davies played for the Worcester Rugby Club - now Warriors - second and third teams.

His funeral will be held at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church, Bransford Road, on Monday at 11am. His family are inviting anyone who knew Mr Davies but have asked for family flowers only.

Any donations can be given to St Richard's Hospice or Acorns Children's Hospice.