HUNDREDS of tributes have poured in for a much-loved Cockermouth man who raised thousands of pounds for charity over the years.

Kevin Twigg, 58, died on Monday at the West Cumberland Hospital. He had serious health issues and had contracted coronavirus.

His sister, Lorraine Jeffery, of Workington, said: "Kevin was such a loving gentleman who just wanted to make everybody happy and smile.

"He loved the people of Cockermouth and they loved him and I could not be more proud of that.

"Kevin’s efforts in raising money for charity showed how kind hearted he was, he always wanted to help others.

"He will be so sadly missed."

Over the years, Kevin has raised money for a huge range of causes, including Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team, Copeland Occupational and Social Centre, Cancer Research UK, West Cumbria People First and Children in Need.

He bungee jumped, paraglided, organised countless sponsored walks, took part in bed pushes, truck pulls and party nights.

And in between drumming up support for all his events, he even managed to find time to audition for ITV’s X Factor.

Four years ago Kevin was honoured for his work to help others. He had spent the previous 16 years as a director of People First, which supports people with learning difficulties.

Lorraine said: "I was never me, I was always Kevin Twigg's sister!

"He was so proud of People First and loved all the community events and fundraising but the highlight was when he got to switch on the Christmas lights in Cockermouth. He had always wanted to do that."

Cockermouth mayor Julie Laidlow said: "I knew Kevin from school. He was such a lovely person, a keen fundraiser who always supported the carnival.

"He always collected more money than anyone else on carnival day. He was so popular and will be a big miss."

John Bulman, of Cockermouth Mountain Rescue Team, said: "There are only a few people who become a legend in their own lifetime, Kevin was one of the few.

"He will be remembered by many generations of townsfolk for his fundraising efforts for many causes round town, including the team, his cheerful and smiling face when you met him and his concerns for other people, despite his own challenges in life."

He was also a big family man. "I have a son and daughter, Adam and Natalie, who he worshipped," said Lorraine.

"And he thought the world of his granddaughter, Charlotte."

Kevin spent nearly two weeks at the West Cumberland Hospital.

"The nurses and staff could not have given better care and support for Kevin and our family which I am so thankful for," said Lorraine.