TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved Burnley charity worker after he died suddenly following a heart attack.

Staff and students from Freshfields, in Cemetery Lane, were left in shock after support carer Ian Kirkbride, 50, passed away.

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And now supporters of the organisation, which offers horticultural training for people with learning difficulties, say it will be especially poignant when the Kirkbride Cup, named in his honour, is presented at their annual awards.

Ian was heavily involved in the charity’s ‘up-cycling’ project, to refurbish old bikes, and the trophy is awarded to the group’s best cyclist.

Centre manager Gail Harvey-Clapham said: “Ian was extremely proud of all our guys and their achievements no matter how small and many of those achievements were down to his imaginative and creative approach. He never saw the disability, only the ability. Ian was a huge part of Freshfields, it will be very difficult to find someone who could step into his shoes, as he was a little bit of everything, who brought so much fun to so many people and will be greatly missed.”

Ian began his involvement with the organisation as a volunteer, after an accident at work had left him with limited used of one hand. He also battled depression and found a new lease of life at Freshfields and became a support carer.

Gail added: “The role of volunteers is an important one at Freshfields, many staff members begin by volunteering first. Ian is testament to how it can have a positive effect to people’s lives.”