Shocked readers who yesterday learned of the death of landlord Kevin Ridgeon have been paying tribute to the much loved family man.

Mr Ridgeon, 54, joint landlord of the Kingfisher pub in Chantry, recently started work again as a lorry driver in order to support the pub which he had run with his wife, Julie, for the last four years.

He drove an articulated lorry to Lichfield, near Birmingham, at the weekend and in the early hours of Saturday he fell backwards from the vehicle and suffered major injuries.

Facebook fan Aly Toogood left a message to say: “Oh how sad, sleep easy Kevin.”

While Lorna Gibson added: “Very sad news, love and thoughts go out to his family xx”

Gary Jackaman: “I am very sorry to hear of the news. Kevin did so much to turn the Kingfisher round. My thoughts are with Kevin’s immediate family and friends at this difficult time.”

Kevin was known for his community spirit and his reputation spread far further than his pub regulars.

Allison Hembery said: “I didn’t know Kevin but I understand from what I have read he had a heart of gold and cared so much for the community. God bless him and I’m thinking off his family and friends at this very sad time xxx”

While Amy Dorling Steward said: “Did not know him personally but he was a friendly bloke as been in the pub with me boyfriend and kids...so so sad...thoughts are with his family xx”

Echoing the thoughts of many, Phil Andre said: “The Kingfisher won’t be the same without him and sorry about your loss hope you keep the pub going.”

Cherry Peck added: “Lovely man. Thoughts are with his wife, daughter and little Freddie.”

Donna Lockwood also said: “Lovely man.” She continued: “R.I.P Kev. All our love to Julie,Sam,Little Freddie and all the Family. XxxX”

Sharing her thoughts, Christina Jayne Eyles wrote on our wall: “Sad to hear, RIP Kevin, thoughts and condolences go out to the family xxx”

Barbara Hogger simply said: “Sad news.”

And Trisha Hodgins added: “A really lovely guy, made you feel very welcome in the pub will be missed thoughts are with his family xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx”

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