HUNDREDS of mourners gathered yesterday for the funeral of an extremely popular bank worker who died suddenly after complications following a routine operation.

Rajaa Qasim, 39, of Crowford Street, Nelson, had surgery on his hip on Friday at the Alexandra Hospital in Cheadle, Greater Manchester.

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However, he died early on Saturday after suffering complications.

Mr Qasim, who was married with a three-year-old daughter, was known to many in Nelson in his role as a personal banking manager at Barclays on Manchester Road.

He also devoted much of his spare time to youth work, organising sporting and social activities for Nelson's youth though the Central Ghausia Masjid, Clayton Street.

His friend, Muhammad Inam, said: "This has shocked and shattered the whole community.

"Rajaa was a beloved son, father, husband, friend, teacher, mentor and community leader.

"He was a dedicated youth worker and was involved in inter-faith groups and building understanding across all communities in Burnley and Pendle.

"He was an active football, sports and outdoor leisure fan.

"Rajaa was young, wise, vibrant, humble and handsome.

"Everyone always came first before his own wishes, young or old."

Hundreds of mourners gathered Ghausia Masjid on Monday afternoon to pay their final respects.

Arshad Mahmood, Iman of Colne mosque, said: "He was a gentle person, who was beloved by all in this community.

"His selfless personality led him to spend much of his time helping and guiding younger people in Nelson.

"I'm struggling to come to term with losing someone who was so valued by all those he knew,"

Councillor Mohammed Iqbal, leader of Pendle Council had travelled to Stockport Coroners' office early yesterday to secure the requisite paperwork in order that Mr Qasim could be buried at the earliest opportunity, as is Muslim tradition.

He said: "I've known Rajaa since he was born. He was a credit to his family and a credit to Nelson.

"Many people will know him from the bank where he worked, he was a warm and generous man.

"Hundreds have attended his funeral to show their respects to a person who helped many in the community."