TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular former News and Star salesman who sadly passed away last month.

Malcolm Bishop, 58, died in West Cumberland hospital on October, 29 after a period of ill health.

Malcolm was one of Workington's best loved characters and was often seen in the centre of town entertaining shoppers and residents with his harmonica and radio which he carried round with him frequently.

Friend of Malcolm and gym owner Ted Clifton said: "Malcolm never had any brothers or sisters, his family were the Workington community, they were his brothers and sisters, he just loved Cumbria and especially Workington."

"I never heard Malcolm say a bad word about anybody,.

"If the world was full of Malcolm Bishops what a beautiful world it would be."

Hundreds of people took to the streets of Workington on Friday to say one last farewell to one of the communities best-loved characters.

Many lined Murray Road where Malcolm would frequently be seen selling newspapers as well as outside of the church were his service was held.

Readers also took to social media to share their thoughts and feeling and send prayers to Malcolm.

Here's are some of the many tributes that were given:

John Nichol expressed his condolences at the popular locals passing, he said: "Sleep tight Malcolm bishop loved by everyone god bless you fly high marra."

Georgina Stuart echoed these sentiments , she commented : "Rip Malcolm one of the funniest people I ever had the pleasure of knowing Workington won’t be the same with out u fly high pal."

Sandra Walker also expressed her condolences to Malcolm, she said: "RIP Malcolm fly high in the sky now you've gained your angel wings."

Mandy Farish conveyed just how popular Malcolm was in Workington, she commented: "It was a privilege to know Malcolm. He also knew everyone. I will miss him in the town immensely."

Val Hoban also found Mr Bishop to be a Cumbrian legend, as many others had described him in the past few weeks, she said: "RIP Malcolm, true gent and absolute legend."