A 32-year-old Great Somerford man whose optimism and courage inspired many people, has died of Hodgkin's lymphoma, a form of cancer.

Barrie John Morgan, from Winkins Lane in the village, died from the disease at the bone marrow transplant unit in Bristol Royal Infirmary, on January 13.

He had battled cancer for three years and until the end remained convinced he would beat it.

His father Michael said: "Barrie never complained once. He was fighting to the last few minutes of his life. He was an out and out hero."

Mr Morgan, who was unmarried and an insurance broker for Allied Wessex, was a popular and active member of the local community.

He was heavily involved with the amateur dramatics society, The Somerford Stagers, where he acted in and stage-managed various productions.

He was a keen competitor at tractor pulls and with his father attended competitions across Britain.

Mr Morgan also enjoyed walking and collecting watches and was very interested in history.

Mr Morgan senior said: "Barrie was a very kind person who loved people and would help anybody. He was always laughing and was a good listener. We will really miss him."

Mr Morgan, his wife Valerie and Barrie's brother Michael said they were touched by the sympathy they had received from the community.

Mr Morgan senior said: "I would like to thank the community for its support. I didn't realise how many friends we had."

The funeral is due to take place tomorrow at Westerleigh Crematorium, near Chipping Sodbury, at 2.30pm.