TRIBUTES have been pouring in for former Argus picture editor Richard Taylor who has died at the age of 63.

Colleagues and friends have spoken of their fond memories of Richard, including his support for young and upcoming photographers and his love of cricket and Elvis Presley.

Richard became picture editor at the Argus in June 1997 and stayed for ten years.

Among the big stories he was involved in were the death of Princess Diana, the September 11 terrorist attacks and the West Pier fire in Brighton.

Originally from Yorkshire, Richard had previously worked at the Evening News in Scarborough and The Herald in Plymouth before coming to work in Brighton.

When he left the Argus he worked on a casual basis for the Metro before returning to Brighton for a short period in November 2015.

In a message posted on Facebook, Richard’s son Andrew said: “Dad was loved universally and he was the soul of any party. His kindness was well known and he always kept an eye out for the young snappers coming through at the Evening News in Scarborough, the Herald in Plymouth and The Argus in Brighton. I hope you will join me in remembering his fondness for Elvis Presley – a legend that Dad can now sing his beloved rock’n’roll with in person.”

Brighton-based and former Argus chief reporter Simon Dack said: “ He was always on the side of the photographers and would stand up for them.

“He was very clued up on new technology and introduced the digital age to the Argus.

“Richard created a great camaraderie among photographers and we enjoyed a few parties together in various pubs around Brighton.”

Aaron St Clair, the owner of US-based St Clair Images, has photographed celebrities around the world for Splash News and covered major news events.

He started his career at the Argus and also paid tribute, saying: “It is with a heavy heart I say goodbye to a mentor, a friend and someone I have looked up to since he put me on the road to my career when I was 17 years old.

“Richard you will be missed by many. I raise a glass to you and take warmth in knowing that you are singing Elvis Presley songs and laughing that infectious laugh of yours. I’ll miss you old friend.”

Richard also loved cricket, which he had played to a high level in Yorkshire when he was younger.

He later joined his local press team The Headliners, where he eventually became captain.

A funeral service for Richard is due to be held in Yorkshire later this month.