TRIBUTES have been paid after the death of an unforgettable 'big character' and loving dad from Worcester who was always the life and soul of the party.

Mark Downton, known as Shaggs, died aged 63 following a heart attack at his home in Warndon Villages in Worcester as his daughters pay tribute to their larger-than-life dad.

The father-of-two, who was born and raised in Worcester, died on Friday, April 26 and earned the nickname Shaggs because of his distinctive thick mane of hair which made him instantly recognisable.

A former pupil at Nunnery Wood High School, he worked as a bricklayer then as a forklift truck driver, employed in the construction business for Redrow.

Worcester News: MISSED: Mark Downton worked as a bricklayer and forklift truck driver and was a 'big character' in Worcester's pubs, instantly recognisable because of his shaggy locks, pictured here as a young manMISSED: Mark Downton worked as a bricklayer and forklift truck driver and was a 'big character' in Worcester's pubs, instantly recognisable because of his shaggy locks, pictured here as a young man (Image: Supplied by family)

He was described as a 'huge character' by one his two daughters, Lydia Downton, who said many would know him from the city's pubs and bars where he always made an impression on everyone he met.

Ms Downton said: "He was sociable and he loved partying. Whenever there was a party, he was there. He was a very big character. He was a very loving dad - we were never told off as kids. He was a great dad. His nickname was Shaggs because of his shaggy hair. He was unforgettable."

Worcester News: PRESENCE: Mark Downton was the life and soul of the party in Worcester's pub scene PRESENCE: Mark Downton was the life and soul of the party in Worcester's pub scene (Image: Supplied by family)

He loved a pint in many city pubs, including the Prince of Wales in Warndon, the Blackpole Inn or the Lyppard Grange in Warndon Villages. His drink of choice was a pint of Strongbow and Ms Downton said: "And we've heard he owes a lot of people a round."

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Mr Downton, who is survived by his daughters, Stacey Downton and Lydia Downton, also had three grandchildren.

Worcester News: LOVED: Mark Downton was an unforgettable man in Worcester's pubsLOVED: Mark Downton was an unforgettable man in Worcester's pubs (Image: Supplied by family)

His funeral will be on held at Worcester Crematorium on Friday, May 17 at 10.45am followed by a wake at The Goodrest.

Everyone is welcome. If he were here he would be saying 'how many people are coming?' said his daughters. The family say they are hoping for 'a big turnout'.

"He would have loved his funeral to be well attended as he was a bit of an attention seeker," said Lydia Downton.

It will be family flowers at the funeral with donations to Acorns Children's Charity.