A FATHER of four and local businessman has died suddenly aged 41.

John Hargreaves collapsed and died at the family firm of L J and R Footwear, Waterfoot, where he was a director.

"Everyone is absolutely gutted," said his tearful brother Richard today.

"It came completely out of the blue. John was as fit as a fiddle. He didn't smoke and hardly drank.

"He was a loving husband and father and was my best friend. He was always there for me."

John, who lived at Hargreaves Court, Lumb, leaves a wife Lani-Jo and four children aged nine, seven, six and four.

The funeral will be held at St Ann's Church, Ashworth Road, Waterfoot, at 12.00 noon on Tuesday.

Donations are requested for the British Heart Foundation.

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