TRIBUTES have been paid to a sadly missed volunteer who collected thousands of pounds for Wigan and Leigh Hospice.

Described as a big man with a big heart, Arthur Campbell Emmett, of Stretton Road, Lowton, died recently in Whiston Hospital. He was 83 and had himself been suffering from cancer.

The former 1960's Golborne Conservative councillor, who was passionate about most things in his life, spent many years collecting and transporting day hospice patients to both the Whelley and Hindley sites.

Appeals officer, Brian Halliwell, who took over as lottery manager six years ago, said: "I first met Arthur when he told me he wanted to collect the lottery in the Golborne, Lowton and Leigh areas, and this was the first time anybody had willingly volunteered to help collect for me.

"Over the years he brought in thousands of pounds from residential homes, shops and doctors' surgeries in his beloved Leigh.

"When he discovered that the hospice also raised funds from selling merchandise he took on the role of fundraiser himself canvassing support in his own inimitable style, delivering and collecting from petrol stations, stores, corner shops and post offices.

"He was passionate about most things in his life and his contribution will be sorely missed, but moreso his infectious enthusiasm and passion for the hospice he loved will be irreplaceable."

He leaves a wife, June, and daughters Alison and Elaine. He was cremated at Howe Bridge following a service at St Luke's Church, Lowton.