Tributes have flooded in for a popular pub landlord after a difficult month-long fight with coronavirus.
Tom Howarth's tragic death was described by heartbroken friends as "another good life gone" as messages of support to his family were shared on social media.
The 67-year-old died after spending 32 days in intensive care on a ventilator.
Dad-of-one Tom was well known for running Bar 1-11 on Hardman Street, Rosie O'Grady's and Flanagan's Apple, all in the city centre.
The avid Liverpool FC fan also was at the helm of many other pubs including The Richmond in Wavertree, The Hare and Hounds in Maghull, Johnny Todd in Kirkby, The Setter and Vine in Anfield, The Railway in Formby, The Jollys in Bootle, The Crofters in Huyton and The Turnpike Tavern in Broadgreen.
Following the news of his death, hundreds of people shared their heartbreak on Facebook, describing Southport-born Tom as a "legend".
Rhonda Elvira said: "As an ex Bass licensee whose pubs included Bar 1-11 long after Tom left, my condolences to the whole family.
"Tom was a Bass legend. I have either worked in or had the licence for many of the pubs he ran so well over the years.
"Lovely man that ran a tight ship. RIP"
Zena Davies also said: "So sad this horrible virus takes another good life.
"God bless Tom and your family."
Paula Holding added: "Top guy. One of the best I have ever worked for."
Speaking to the ECHO, Tom's son Anthony said: "Dad was a lot of things to a lot of people.
"To the family first and foremost, he was an amazing husband to my mum Madeline, a father to me, and grandfather to my children Nathan and Evie.
"It amazes me wherever he went across Liverpool, Sefton and Wirral, the amount of times people would stop him for a conversation about one of his pubs.
"He was so well-known and well liked.
"Dad was an avid fan of Liverpool FC.
"For a few years in the Evans and Houllier years we used to have season tickets together and still went regularly in Rafa’s time.
"Sadly we haven’t got to Anfield as often in the past few years.
"Our last game together at Anfield was the Red Star game on the way to Madrid last year.
"We never missed a match at the pub though and watching Liverpool won’t be the same without him.
"He adored his job and going into the pubs of Merseyside."
Messages of condolences have reached the family from around the world, including Australia, India and America.
Anthony added: "Dad was well loved.
"I can honestly say that I have smiled as much as I have cried this past week.
"Dad leaves us with truly happy memories.
"The NHS who looked after him took such good care of him.
"We will never ever forget their kindness and efforts to save dad’s life.”
