This news has come as such a shock. I was only reading and responding to some of his comments, beer clip photos and video just a few days ago on Facebook. Like everyone else I thought that Bri was getting much better and I was really looking forward to meeting up with him again and having a good natter at Hartlepool Folk Festival.

He was such a genuinely nice man and an adorable rogue with a love for life and a sparkle in his eye. Once you became a friend of Brian you became a friend for life, could never tire of his company and always looked forward to seeing him again.

God bless you mate you were a one-off. Deepest sympathy to his nearest and dearest and his legions of firm friends and admirers at this time.

We have all lost one of life's real characters and a true gentleman who will be sorely missed by all.

RIP and bless you Brian

Chris