A Blackburn company has led tributes to a "beloved friend and colleague" who has died.
PM+M Solutions for Business LLP has paid a heartfelt tribute to Chris Johnson, who has been described as a "brilliant, wonderful man", following his death.
Chris Johnson joined PM+M, based at Greenbank Technology Park, Challenge Way, in the year 2000, aged 16.
He started as an apprentice and dedicated his entire career to the firm, working up to become a partner at the firm.
A spokesperson for PM+M Solutions for Business LLP said: "Everyone at PM+M is devastated by the passing of our beloved friend, colleague and Partner, Chris Johnson.
"He joined the firm at just 16 years of age as an apprentice in the year 2000 and his contribution to our success over the next three decades was immeasurable.
"He made a huge contribution to our firm and to the many people who had the privilege of working with him.
"His loss will be felt deeply by all who knew him.
"Our thoughts and love go out to his family, whom he treasured and lived for, and to his many friends and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time.
"Chris touched the lives of so many people throughout his career."
His mother shared how much Chris loved his job.
She said: "He loved working at PM+M and was always looking for new ways to move forward.
"His life was complete when he became a daddy to his two beautiful daughters, and he lived for them.
"I will miss my wonderful son so much, but someone needed him more than me."
His father also shared a heartfelt tribute.
He said: "Thanks for all your wonderful thoughts and tributes; it really makes us all feel a bit better.
"I still can’t believe we’ve lost him.
"It means a lot to see how much you all thought of Chris.
"Now we have to buckle down and look after my gorgeous two grandkids and make sure they never forget what a brilliant, wonderful man my son was."
One colleague said: "He was incredibly intelligent and truly cared about everyone at PM+M and his clients, but above all, he loved his family so much and my thoughts are with them at this awful time."
Another said: "Chris is going to be hugely missed by so many people.
"It's been a pleasure to be a partner with Chris at PM+M for the past 12 years.
"He was positive and supportive to me and many others and he is going to leave a void in so many people's lives."
Another tribute described Chris as "a very clever guy who loved his family and his job."
Another reflected on their early years together.
They said: "I have great memories of working with Chris at PM&M and doing our apprenticeship years together.
"Always knew he’d be very successful.
"I’m so incredibly sad and shocked to hear of his passing.
"Sending lots of love to all his family and friends."
