A family have spoken of their heartbreak after a much-loved dad died just weeks before the arrival of his first grandchild.
Darren Brennan, 40, died after falling from a bridge over the M60 near his home in Blackley, north Manchester, last week.
Tragically, it is believed he took his own life.
Police attended the incident and said a file is being prepared for the coroner's office.
Darren's family, including mum Bernie, 62, and brother Will, 30, have been left devastated.
A former pupil of Our Lady's RC school, he was well-known in the Blackley area as a talented footballer who almost made it as a player for his beloved Manchester City as a teenager.
He leaves behind his long-term partner Jenny and three children from a previous relationship, including a daughter who is due to give birth next month around the same time as Darren's birthday.
"He was looking forward to the baby," said Bernie.
"He said 'I hope she has her on my birthday Ma', he was over the moon.
"We're all in shock, everybody is devastated."
After leaving school, Darren had held a number of jobs including working as a milkman, barman at a hotel and a car park manager.
His family described him as a 'joker' who would often play pranks to entertain his children or others in the area.
He loved to socialise, especially with his mum.
"I had his 18th at my house and I think it went on for three days!" said Bernie.
"I had to go to blackpool and leave them to it
"I have a bar at my house and every Saturday night Darren comes and we have a drink, me, him and Jenny and he does all the DJing and entertaining."
His brother Will added: "He was the life and soul of the party.
"He used to say 'we're not here for a long time we're here for a good time'."
Sadly, it is not the first tragedy to hit the family.
Darren had also lost his brother and father and his family say he had struggled to cope with the loss.
"He was a big person, and the biggest part of him was his heart," said Bernie.
"You have to be more aware of people.
"I thought I knew Darren so well...we're as close as anything me, Will and Darren.
"It's only now you look back and think, 'Why didn't I see that?'
"I'm looking at pictures thinking 'he looks tired there'.
"You just don't see it, it's in front of your face and you just don't see it. People need to be aware, if they see any of their family upset or anything, and wanting to go on their own - follow them, don't let them out of your sight."
Will added: "Daz was just a big part in everyone's life. He helped other people with their mental health.
"People do struggle don't they, there should be more help out there."
When the M.E.N first shared news of Darren's death last week our Facebook page was inundated with tributes.
"Can't believe it luv to the Brennan family you're in our prayers," one friend wrote on our Facebook page.
Another wrote: "May you be at peace now, such sad news for our local community known and liked by everyone. Fly high."
And another friend said: "Absolutely gutted I’m not going to see your huge smile again. What a lovely gentleman with a heart of gold. You're at piece now shine bright mate and fly high."
"OMG heartbroken I can't believe it this man was so loved and wanted Rest in paradise daz!! " wrote another.
Another simply added: "A local lad loved by many. "
Funeral arrangements are yet to be made but it is expected to take place in the next few weeks.
The family will be asking for donations to Dr Kershaw's hospice in Oldham.
