EMOTIONAL tributes have been paid to a Bolton businessman who has died aged 54.

Simon Gough was well known as the owner of family-run Compass Packaging and Printing based on Bridgeman Place.

Founded in 1976, the business was previously run by Simon's parents Pat and Rick, and specialises in producing self-adhesive labels, T-shirts, flyers and business cards.

Simon, a keen and talented footballer, was also the elder brother of Damon Gough, aka Mercury Prize-nominated musician Badly Drawn Boy.

Writing on Twitter, Damon, said: "Devastated and heartbroken that my older brother Simon passed away on Friday morning, he was 54.

"A guiding light to me and my two Sisters all our lives. I can’t remember having an argument with him in 51 years. He instilled in me the confidence to pursue my dreams. Love you Si."

One of Simon's two sons, Marly, also paid tribute to his dad on social media.

He wrote: "Words can't describe the emotion I feel at the moment but I know you can now finally rest and be at peace.

"I'm incredibly proud of how brave and strong you've been throughout the whole process and you have rightfully earned your place in the sky where I know you'll be watching over us.

"You made your mark on the people that have been privileged enough to ever be in your presence and be lucky enough to call you a friend and I promise to continue to be the man you've raised me to be and make you proud.

"The world has sadly lost a loving father and husband, a true gentleman, a beautiful soul, a one in a million, a role model, and a hero. You were a real life superman."

Simon's funeral will take place at 1pm on Wednesday, August 4 at St Anne’s Church, Turton, High Street, Chapeltown, Bolton.

A celebration of Simon's life will then be held at Edgworth Cricket Club.