A FAMILY has paid tribute to a "soft-centred" nightclub doorman who died after a heart attack.

Grandad Carl Sibbering, 44, grew up in Accrington but moved to Kent where he died while on a night out.

He was a former pupil at Holy Family School, Wordsworth Road, Accrington, which is now Mount Carmel Roman Catholic High School.

Mr Sibbering's family, who live in Accrington and Blackburn, said that despite his tough-guy image as a bouncer he was "everyone's friend".

He died on Wednesday last week but had a history of heart trouble. He suffered his first heart attack six years ago and in 2004 had a minor stroke.

He had been taking medication but his family said he had not let his condition disrupt his life.

Son John, who has a daughter Ella, two, said: "Dad lived life to the full and never let health problems stop him doing anything.

"He used to come back to Accrington all the time because he wanted to see his granddaughter. She meant the world to him."

Mr Sibbering used to work at the Rists in Accrington which has since become Lucas Plant.

After a number of factory jobs in the area he moved to Folkstone 15 years ago after getting divorced. He worked as an antique dealer and also as a doorman.

He was well known in Accrington pubs and clubs and was a regular at Burnley Football Club.

John, 24, of Aaron Street, Blackburn, added: "We knew he had health problems but his death has still come as a huge shock."

Mr Sibbering's mother Kathleen, who lives in Primrose Street in Accrington, said: "It is terrible. He was so young."

The funeral will take place at Accrington Crematorium in Whalley Road tomorrow at 12.20pm and his family have asked for any donations in Mr Sibbering's name to be made to the British Heart Foundation.