EMOTIONAL tributes have been paid to a 37-year-old dad-of-one who died suddenly.

Kelvin Bedford, of the Ridgeway, Connah’s Quay, died at his home on July 7 with the cause of his death still unknown.

His devastated family have described him as “cheeky and up for a laugh” and said he will forever be in their hearts.

Speaking from the family home on Bodnant Grove his parents Ken and Jean led the tributes.

Jean, 58, said: “He was very well-known and popular. We loved him so much. He was cheeky and up for a laugh. We are a close family and he was always prepared to give his time to help others.

“His death was a shock, we are devastated. This is a huge loss for the family.”

Kelvin, known as ‘Kel’ to friends and family, was a former salesman throughout the north west. A former pupil at Mold Alun High School, he was as a well-known skateboarder in his youth and had campaigned tirelessly for facilities in the area.

His daughter Chole, 15, wrote a verse for her father which was read at his funeral and will write music to complete the song.

She said: “He used to make me laugh so much, he was always taking the mick out of what I wore and the music I listened to.

“He always made my mates laugh. I remember his sweet cupboard and my mates loved it because he was such a big kid.

“He was always there and whenever anything bad happened he was always there to sort it out and no matter what mood I was in, he always cheered me up.

“There are no words to describe how much he means to me. I will never be without him.”

His partner of two years Julie Genders, 26, said: “I had found my soul mate in Kel, he truly changed my life. No matter what had happened he would always put a smile on my face.

“He was always the joker and would do anything for Chloe, his mates, family and me. I can’t even begin to explain how much I miss him or how much I love him, he was not only my partner but my best friend too. He will forever be in my heart.”

His funeral was held at St Mark's Church, Connah's Quay.

Jean added: “The church was packed to capacity. I would like to thank everybody for their support and the caring thoughts.”