TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘fantastic’ and ‘lovely’ husband and father who died last week.

Ian Yates, 65, died on Thursday, January 14, in Royal Blackburn Hospital with Covid-19 and pneumonia.

Ian’s wife Linda Yates said: “He has left a huge hole in my life.

"He was my soul mate and best friend.

“I could talk to him about anything.

"He was just a lovely man, loved his family and we just miss him so much. He was fantastic.”

Born on July 5, 1955, Ian grew up in Mill Hill and attended Witton Park High School from 1966 to 1970.

He met his wife Linda met while Ian was working as a driver at a hardware distributor while Linda was working in the office typing invoices.

The couple were married at St Peter's and All Saints church on Bolton Road in Blackburn in May 1980 and celebrated their ruby anniversary last May.

Starting his career at an agricultural company in Whalley, Ian also worked at Park Brothers, as a coach driver for Aspdens, a wagon driver for Mercer and sons before finishing his career with Queen Elizabeth’s Grammar School from where he was due to retire in July.

A spokesperson for QEGS said: “Pupils and students benefitted from Ian’s friendly nature and dedication, which ensured they were able to get to school, sporting activities and other enrichment opportunities safely and on time.

“Ian freely gave his time to the PE faculty, driving children and sports equipment to Lammack playing fields and assisted in the design-technology department, helping staff wherever he could.

“Ian’s ability to cheer up all those he met will be sadly missed and we ask the QEGS community to join us in sending our prayers to his family during this difficult time.”

Ian leaves his wife, two daughters, two sons-in-law and two grandchildren.