Family and friends of Sam Walden, who died in a motorcycle accident in Belgium last Wednesday, have paid tribute to the fun loving campsite manager.

Mr Walden, 29, who ran Blacklands Lake Campsite for his parents Barbara and John, who opened the business in the 1980s, was known for his sense of humour but was also a motivational manager.

His mother said: “I would like to express my deepest gratitude to his friends and colleagues for all their support and love and to everyone helping me in this difficult time, not least my son Joseph and Sam’s girlfriend Hannah.”

Blackland Lakes receptionist Katherine Harrison said: “Sam was a kind, trusting and very generous person with a great sense of humour and could brighten someone’s day with his smile and happy nature.

“He was approachable and open to ideas to make the campsite an enjoyable place for all and always gave credit where it was due.

“Memory of him will be ingrained not only in the campsite itself but in all of the hearts of the people who knew and cared for him.”

Campsite regulars Julie and Neil Morton said: “Sam was a truly nice man. Without him Blacklands Lakes will be different but his smile will always be remembered.”

Another couple Ted and Shirley Orchard, who had known Mr Walden since he was a boy, said: “We will always remember his great sense of humour and lovely smile. Sam always made us laugh and he was always a happy go lucky chap.”

Mr Walden was born in Royal United Hospital, Bath, on February 25, 1985 and was educated at The Mill School, Potterne and Warminster School. He then did a countryside management course at the Lackham campus of Wiltshire College.

In addition to his parents he leaves his brother, Joseph, 24, and his girlfriend Hannah Schweitzer, 32.

Sam’s brother Joe said: “Throughout my entire life I have looked up to Sam and I always will. To me he was my big brother who was always there for us through thick and thin.

“His smile and sense of humour were so infectious, that you could not help but smile too, even when times were hard. Together we grew up at Blackland Lakes, where we enjoyed growing up in the countryside and making the most of the outdoors, to the extent where Sam really knew this part of Wiltshire like the back of his hand.

“As children we had our ups and downs sometimes, but as we matured so did our friendship, which cemented into a loving relationship with no uncertainties. From a young age we both also nurtured a passion for motorbikes; some of my fondest memories will still be from riding with Sam and seeing the joy and excitement it brought him while I watched as he developed into a very talented rider. Even though he is now gone, he will always remain with me through each step of my life.”

The family want as many of Mr Walden’s friends as possible to attend his funeral at West Wilts Crematorium at Semington. Final details are yet to be arranged. Details will appear on the Gazette website or for more information contact John Stuart Funeral Directors on (01380) 723883.