TRIBUTES have been paid to a loving father and popular character who has died aged 45.

Shaun McDermott, who lived in Commercial Street, Oswaldtwistle, died on Friday after a five-day fight for life in Royal Blackburn Hospital.

It is understood he had battled drug addiction and depression for a number of years.

The former Rhyddings High School pupil leaves behind mum Penny, sister Bonita, daughter Mya Mae Thorp and half brother Ryan McDermott.

Social media has been awash with tributes to Mr McDermott from friends, reminiscing about old times.

Friend Erika Anderton said: "He was a beautiful, creative, artistic man. He was the best break dancer, the best skateboarder, a wonderful poet and artist and he had a huge heart.

"He epitomised cool. Everyone thought he was the coolest man in town.

"Back in the day, everyone wanted to hang around with Shaun because he was the man to be with.

"Lots of people got in touch urging Shaun to pull through and we read him every message, played every song people mentioned, we kissed him, held him, talked to him but he just wanted to go.

"He'd just had enough. He had struggled with drug addiction and mental health issues for a long time and he just couldn't take it anymore.

"He tried and tried but his depression eventually took its toll on him. He just didn't get the help and support he needed.

"It raises how important people's mental health is and this needs to be highlighted.

"No one who came into contact with Shaun will ever forget him."

His daughter Mya Mae, who turns 17 this month, posted on Facebook: "This beautiful soul grew his wings, surrounded by the people who loved him most.

"There is now a hole in my heart that no one will ever be able to fill. He was so popular and too good for this world.

"So please always tell your parents you love them and never hold grudges because one day they might not be there.

"So I now have the most beautiful angel in heaven and I call him Dad. Good night, I love you."

A crowdfunding page has been set up by friends to raise money to give Mr McDermott 'a good send-off'.

To donate to gofundme.com/final-goodbyes-for-shaun