TRIBUTES have been paid after the sudden death of a 20-year-old man from Rossendale.

Former Accrington and Rossendale College student Jack Cropper, from Whitewell Bottom, was found dead on Lodge Lane in Bacup on July 17.

Jack studied construction at Accrington and Rossendale College, specialising in brickwork and was a regular at the Ye Olde Boot and Shoe pub in Waterfoot.

The pub's owner, Witold Wachalowski, said: "I can't believe it.

"It is very sad really. Jack was a pub regular and he was a lovely and very respectable man.

"He was one of the best young 20 year olds I have ever met.

"All of his friends who come to the pub do not know what do to themselves.

"It has been devastating."

Headteacher at Alder Grange School, David Hampson, said: "We were deeply saddened to hear this news about Jack.

"He was a popular character at school, who is well remembered at Alder Grange. Our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.”

Accrington and Rossendale College principal Linda Mason said: "Jack successfully studied construction and did great work with the college three years ago.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time."