Heartbroken Ali Pibworth has paid tribute to her partner of 25 years, drummer Mark Guppy who died suddenly on August 22.

Miss Pibworth, 39, who is just weeks away from giving birth to the couple’s second child, said: “Mark was, and is, my rock, my life.

“Words cannot even begin to express what he meant to us and how we are feeling.

“Mark understood me, put up with me and was always there.”

The couple, who already have a daughter, Kimberley, aged four, were about to go on a family outing when Mr Guppy, 42, died at their home in Hardens Mead, Chippenham.

Miss Pibworth said: “After 25 years of being together we had never been so close and happy when we were blessed with Kimberley – we felt complete.

“Mark was a fantastic daddy and partner – we had so many plans with Kimberley starting school and our baby boy on the way. Please watch over us Mark.”

Mr Guppy, also known as Mega and Mazzer, worked at Fascia Graphics for 14 years. He was also a drummer in the band Nobody’s Heroes.

Younger b rother Jason Guppy, 40, described him as a “best friend”. He added: “He was such a fantastic guy, to whom nothing was ever too much trouble. He touched many people throughout his life, through his music, kind attitude and humour.”

Mr Guppy’s parents Gill and Ron described him as “the most loving, kind, helpful and wonderful son” and said said they will remember him with “love, joy, pride and honour.”

Niece Lily Guppy, ten, added: “My very funny uncle Mark was a great uncle and godfather, I loved him to bits and always will. He was very funny and silly.”

Mr Guppy was recording a new album with bandmates Sam Butler, Terry Jones and Mike Humphries when he died.

The recording is to continue but bass guitarist Mr Jones is to leave the band afterwards because he cannot face playing without Mr Guppy.

He said Mr Guppy was a powerful driving force within the band and would often act as a referee during disputes.

“He never came down on either side of the fence when there was an argument,” he said. “He was such a relaxed and chilled out drummer, his talent seemed so effortless.

Mr Guppy’s funeral will be held on September 10 at noon at St Paul’s Church. Dress is casual and bright colours. Donations to the Huntington’s Association.