TRIBUTES were today being paid to Tony Moore, the Evening News' Deputy Sports Editor, who died suddenly at the weekend.

Since joining the paper as a sports reporter in 1992, Tony made many friends in the city, especially at Worcester City Football Club in St George's Lane - the club whose fortunes he wrote about for almost a decade.

Current Worcester City chairman Dave Boddy said he would have fond memories of Devon-born Tony, who was just 40.

"Not only did he report on the fortunes of the club but he was heavily involved in Worcester City," said Mr Boddy.

"I knew him for many years and he was respected for always being a dedicated reporter, no matter what he reported on. He was meticulous and never left any stone unturned."

Following his promotion to Deputy Sports Editor in 2001, Tony kept his involvement at the club as secretary of the supporters' club.

Keith Chambers, vice-chairman of the Worcester City supporters' club, said Tony's involvement made him many friends.

"He was such a nice bloke and I speak for all of us who knew him when I say he will be missed," he said.

Tony was also a keen skittles player being a member of the Newsmen skittles team.

Andy Sylvester, Tony's team mate for 10 years, said they were all stunned by the news.

He said: "Tony was a very funny bloke, he was always having a laugh.

"He was a nice guy to have around."

Tony went home from work feeling unwell on Wednesday afternoon.

He was discovered at his St Peter's, Worcester home on Sunday. The cause of his death is not yet known, despite an initial post mortem.

An inquest is expected to be opened and adjourned by the Worcestershire coroner this week.