The family of a man who died after being struck by lightning at a Suffolk golf club has described him as a “kind and loving gentleman” who “had a joke for everyone”.

Philip Shard, from Rushmere St Andrew, died at Ipswich Hospital on Wednesday after he was hit by lightning at Fynn Valley Golf Course on May 27.

The 60-year-old IT consultant leaves behind wife Lesley, daughters Emma and Elizabeth, son-in-laws Matt and Chris and grandchildren Eloise, Florence, Francis and Claudia.

His family said in a joint statement: “Philip was a kind and loving gentleman, husband, father, grandpa and friend who will be sorely missed by all.

“The family would like to take this opportunity to thank all friends and colleagues who have shown so much love and support throughout this difficult time.

“A special thank you to all the staff at Ipswich Hospital Critical Care Unit who showed Philip so much compassion and care.”

Mr Shard’s daughter Elizabeth Griggs added: “Dad was very loud, made an impression on everyone he met and made friends easily.

“He had a joke for everyone. He would help anyone who was in need, and always had time to see his family, especially his four grandchildren whom he adored.

“Dad always enjoyed doing artistic projects, whether it be designing his garden or sitting patiently with the grandchildren to draw and do crafts.”

Mr Shard attended Pangbourne Naval College in Berkshire, where he took part in many sporting activities including rowing, diving, rugby, tennis and squash.

He also enjoyed watching Formula One, rugby and football.

Mrs Griggs said it was impossible to pick out any special memories which stood out from the rest, adding: “But they always mirror his passion for fun, family, and laughter.”

Mr Shard had worked as an IT consultant for the last 10 years, and was a Freeman of the City of London.

The East of England Ambulance Service was called to the golf course, off Ipswich Road in Witnesham, at around 10.50am on May 27.

A spokesman for the trust said paramedics treated a man who was in cardiac arrest after being struck by lightning.

“Following treatment at the scene, he was resuscitated and taken to Ipswich Hospital by land ambulance in a critical condition,” the spokesman added.

A rapid response vehicle, an ambulance crew, ambulance officer, Suffolk Accident Rescue Service and East Anglian Air Ambulance attended.

In the wake of the tragedy, Fynn Valley Golf Club has issued a warning to golfers to “take action at the first signs of any electrical activity”.

A spokesman for the club added: “Our thoughts are with the family of Mr Shard after this tragic incident and our thanks go to the members and visitors who helped at this time to administer CPR and alert the emergency services who arrived shortly after to take over.”

Mr Shard’s funeral is due to be held at Seven Hills Crematorium in Nacton on Tuesday, June 13 at 3pm.

There will be family flowers only and attendees to the funeral are asked to wear something colourful, if they wish.

Donations can be made to The Ipswich Hospital Charity in aid of the Critical Care Unit via Farthing Funeral Service at 650 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich, IP4 4PW or online at www.farthingfunerals.co.uk