Paul Teare, originally from Sandycroft, and later Connah’s Quay where he lived with his fiancée Francesca Kay, died suddenly after suffering a heart attack.

The 47-year-old was preparing to marry his soulmate Francesca on November 5, 2022, and the couple had just sent out "save the date" cards to friends and family.

Paul, known to his friends at Turbo, loved heavy metal music and, with his shaved head and goatee beard, outwardly seemed like a tough guy.

But his family say that stories told to them by friends following his death have confirmed what they already knew.

Wales rugby fan Paul Teare during the Six Nations.

His family said: "He was larger than life, he would just fill a room with his booming laughter. Paul was really kind-hearted, and a big softy.

"His whole life revolved around his family and friends, he would do anything for anyone."

They added: "What has become apparent through all the messages the family has received is that, unbeknownst to all of us, if he knew someone was going through a tough time he would take time out to check up on them. He just had a lot of time for people."

Paul, a former pupil at Hawarden High School and older brother to Mark and Carl, had worked as a shovel driver at Shotton Paper for the last ten years.

He used to be a regular at the White Bear in Mancot, and even managed the football team, leading them to win the Derek Flemming Trophy in 2015.

Paul was also a huge rugby fan and could be found in Plough Inn on Aston Road cheering on Wales during the Six Nations with his family.

Due to the amount of people wanting to offer support, a fundraiser has been set up to help his fiancée Francesca.

The Go Fund Me page, organised by family and friends, reads: "There is nothing that can ease the pain felt through the loss of Paul. So many hearts have been completely broken, none more so than his soul mate Francesca who had been busy planning their wedding on the 5th November 2022, and is now tragically planning his funeral; life can be so cruel.

"Despite the tough guy image, everyone who knew Paul knew he was the kindest gentleman with a big heart.

"He would always go out of his way to look out for his family and friends, and even complete strangers that he might meet.

"Since Paul’s death, countless people have shared their memories of Paul and what a positive impact he had made in their lives. A common theme being how he would regularly check up on people he knew were going through a difficult time; his kindness and compassion knew no bounds. The family have taken great comfort in hearing about the legend that is and always will be Turbo.

"In addition to the shared memories, the family has also been contacted daily by people who would like to offer practical support to Fran as she tries to navigate life without him.

"To enable people to show their love and support a GoFundMe Page has been set up. This will hopefully enable Fran to take some much needed time to grieve for her soul mate."

Support the fundraiser at https://www.gofundme.com/f/jr4cg-pauls-legacy