TRIBUTES were today paid to a popular Ipswich children's entertainer who died after a short battle with cancer.

TRIBUTES were today paid to a popular Ipswich children's entertainer who died after a short battle with cancer.

Dennis Tubb toured as a clown after retiring from his job in insurance, performing at community centres, village halls and parties.

Today, his widow Rose described the 74-year-old as a “deep and sincere man”.

She said: “He didn't seem it to other people, but he was very emotional underneath.

“He was also one of the world's most methodical men.

“His uncle bought him some magic tricks when he was 13 and his love of performing grew from there.

“He was always fascinated by it and when he retired performing took up all his spare time. He was very devoted.”

Mr Tubb, known as Clown Dennis, died on September 26 after succumbing to cancer of the colon, which was diagnosed in May.

He leaves his wife, 74, and son, Christopher, 45.

Fellow children's performers, Sonya and Richard Taylor, first met Mr Tubb, of Sidegate Lane, at Felixstowe's pier pavilion more than 50 years ago.

Mrs Taylor said: “Dennis was loved everywhere by children and he was very well known.

“He became such a lovely and dear friend. He was the sweetest and loveliest person, very polite and a total gentleman.

“When he knew he was dying, he had his friends in the magic business go to his home and choose something from his collection.

“He will be very sadly missed.”

Mr Tubb's funeral, which is open to those who knew him, will take place at 1pm on October 10 at Ipswich Old Cemetery Church.

Donations, which should be sent to 650 Woodbridge Road, Ipswich, IP4 4PW, will be split between Macmillan Cancer Relief and Marie Curie Cancer Care.

n Do you want to pay tribute to Dennis Tubb? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk