Huge numbers of tributes have poured in to honour a roofer who died after a fire broke out while he slept.

More than 50 friends have written emotional goodbyes on The Argus website to 24-year-old Dave Ward, of Raleigh Crescent, Worthing, who they described as "the life and soul of the party".

His family has also received hundreds of cards and visits from devastated friends and relatives.

The former Durrington High School student is believed to have fallen asleep on the sofa in a cottage in North Appleford, on the Isle of Wight, on the first night of a week-long job, when a candle which had been left burning set fire to the room.

It is thought he had been trying to escape through the back door but collapsed before he got there and his body was found by firefighters in the kitchen of the cottage he and colleagues were staying in last Tuesday.

Dave leaves behind parents Julie and Charlie Ward, brothers Graham, 21, and Jamie, 25, and girlfriend of four years Erica Gardner.

David Garman, from Horsham, said: "Dave, you were the life and soul of any party and you were always up for a laugh. I will not forget you and the good times that were had."

Dean, from Brighton, said: "Dave, what a top bloke. You will be greatly missed. You were not only my sister's boyfriend you were part of my extended family. You have left a lasting impression on so many people. So no goodbyes, just good memories. Rest in peace mate."

Gavin Hammond, from Worthing, said: "The world has lost ones of the nicest blokes I've ever meet. In mine and my family's thoughts forever."

Debbie and Ian, from Washington, said: "Not only were you a great guy but part of our family and great fun. We will miss you so much and will always think of you as our son-in-law to be. You will be with us forever, may you rest in peace."

Dave's younger brother, Graham, said: "I'm sitting here waiting for the call that's never going come. Or the standard text message - 'beer tonight?' "I'll be raising a glass or two in your honour this evening, though I know in one way or another you'll be here.

"I'm gonna miss you so much mate, you're everything anyone could want from an older brother. I could write an essay on your good points and struggle for a sentence on your bad.

"Your passing leaves a massive void and I'll miss you every day."

Jan Maynard said: "Dave, you will never be forgotten. Your lovely smile and joking ways. Tom and Gareth will always remember you for looking after them with Erica. You will be sadly missed."

There will be a private funeral for family and close friends at Worthing Crematorium on Friday(May 25) followed by a thanksgiving service open to everyone at Maybridge Community Church at 10am and then food at the Golden Lion pub in The Strand, Dave's local.

Brother Graham stressed that anyone who knew Dave was welcome to this second celebration of Dave's life, which will feature a book of remembrance and a gallery of photos.

He said: "If you knew Dave you have a good memory so do not hesitate to turn up.

"Dave loved a party so the more people there the better."

Anyone wanting to give flowers are asked to instead donate money for two charities - Cancer Research and Diabetes UK.

An inquest into Dave's death has been opened and adjourned.

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