TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved father and cafe owner who has died.

Douglas Sewell ran the Pavilion Cafe in Pavilion Gardens, Brighton, with his wife, June.

The cafe is now run by his son, David Sewell.

David has paid tribute to his father, who died peacefully in his sleep on January 21 aged 91.

David said: “He was the best dad anyone could have.

“He was always there for me. He was also loved by a great many people.”

The cafe was originally opened by Douglas’s father-in-law, Herbert Tennent, known locally as Mr T, during the Second World War.

Douglas and June took over day-to-day running of the café when Mr T semi-retired in the 1970s.

Andrew Madsen, Douglas’s nephew, said: “I’m so very sad to hear of the passing of dear Uncle Doug.

“We had so many great times at the cafe over the years and I can still hear his distinguished and witty voice and hearty warm laugh.

“Uncle Doug was always a true gentleman, keenly interested in discussing sports and current events with me.

“I fondly remember trips with him in his old Citroen car that raised up when it was started up.

“So many wonderful memories with Uncle Doug. We miss you Uncle Doug.”

David started working at the café full time with Douglas and June in the 1980s.

He now runs the café with his wife Vanessa.

Customer Thomas Everchild said: “I’m so sorry to hear this.

“I spent some lovely afternoons chatting over tea at the café. Lovely man.

“Condolences to family and friends.”

Gina Ware said: “I’m so sorry, we were good friends many years ago when my son was little.

“He was one of the kindest, truest gentlemen I’ve ever known. Farewell Doug.

“My sincere condolences to David and family.

Karen Patmore said: “So sorry to hear the news. Doug was a lovely man. We remember him fondly from our days working for Doug and June in the Seventies.”

In a message to well-wishers, David said: “Thank you all so much for the very kind words about my father.

“The support and help this gives me and our family means so much at this difficult time.”

Mr Sewell’s funeral will be on February 27.

The date would have been his 92nd birthday.

It will be taking place at 2pm at Downs Crematorium.

The crematorium is in Bear Road, off Lewes Road, Brighton.