A “GENTLE giant” who devoted his life to caring for his partner has lost his brave battle with a rare form of cancer.

Iain Cox, 31, died at Pendleside Hospice on February 3, after suffering from kidney cancer since April last year.

His father yesterday, paid tribute to his “beautiful boy” who he said would “help anybody.”

And Helen, Iain’s partner of 10 years, has set up a group on social networking site Facebook in memory of her “Darling Iain baby.”

Iain, of Roland Avenue, Nelson, moved to the town eight years ago, after meeting Helen in an internet chatroom.

He worked at the local B&Q store until three years ago when he chose to look after Helen, who has obsessive compulsive disorder and agoraphobia.

But after complaining of backache, he was treated at hospitals in Burnley, Blackburn and Preston and eventually diagnosed with cancer in November.

His dad Michael, of Terry Street, described him as a “big softy” who will be sorely missed by both family and neighbours.

He said: “He was a lovely lad who would help anybody with anything.

"He was always helping people in the street, fixing their computers or mowing their gardens.

“He really looked after Helen. They cherished each other.

"Even when he was in absolute agony he was catering for her needs.”

Iain was born in Newbury, Berkshire, but grew up in several locations, including High Wycombe and the Isle of Wight, as his dad was in the Royal Air Force.

Michael said his son had a passion for a variety of music and enjoyed watching films.

His ashes will be placed at the home he shared with Helen, surrounded by his favourite Stargate DVDs.

Iain also leaves behind his mum Janice, brothers Simon and Philip and sister Heidi.