ANYONE who grew up in South Ribble since the '70s is likely to have memories of attending the Leyland Playscheme, established by community stalwart, Jim Green.

Now, following Mr Green's death tributes have been pouring in from as far away as America for the man they called 'the Pied Piper of Leyland'.

Many have signed a website book of condolence and even students from Denmark, who came to Leyland on an exchange trip he organised in the 1980s, have expressed their sympathy.

Jim, 64, of Kentmere Avenue, Farington, died of a heart attack on New Year's Eve.

Tina Smith, 55, of Northlands, a former playscheme leader for 25 years, said: "The kids absolutely loved him. At the end of the week they'd have a big farewell party. When Jim appeared on stage the children roared. He had a very big heart."

Jim moved to Leyland from Wigan, in 1972, and worked as a youth worker while running two Skelmersdale playschemes.

In 1972, he launched the first Leyland Playscheme, on Worden Park, offering hundreds of children plenty of slapstick fun and games, free trips out and on-site activities.

In 2001, following a cash wrangle with South Ribble Borough Council it moved to Cuerden Hall, Bamber Bridge, before Jim was offered Rowland Homes' Farington House site, in 2003. Group managing director, Paul Rowley, 38, who attended the playscheme as a child, said: "He was a very kind, patient man, who never gave up. He was having a bit of a struggle and I wanted to help and that help will remain."

Jim's daughter, Rosie, 25, of Canberra Road, Leyland, said it was his radical approach that made the playscheme a success.

"He made sure children of different religions, colours and abilities, all got together which, for the seventies, was very forward thinking," she said. "I really couldn't have wished for a better dad. He was always a big kid at heart and lots of fun."

Jim leaves partner Rita, daughters Rosie and Carole, son Simon, stepdaughter Helen and grandchildren Cara and Thomas.

His funeral will take place at Bethel Church, Norfolk Street, Wigan, at 11am, followed by committal at Wigan crematorium, at 1pm.

The family have asked for donations to The Playscheme Association. Log onto www.playscheme.org to sign the condolence book.