Moving tributes have been paid to a popular and respected football coach who died suddenly over the Bank Holiday weekend.
John Paul Couley, a coach at Newcastle East End FC, died unexpectedly on May 5.
His death has left his family, friends and wider football community in shock, and scores of people have been paying tribute to him.
The 40-year-old dad, from Walker, was known for his "vivacious personality, fun loving nature and willingness to go out of his way to help others".
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His colleagues at Newcastle East End also say "he was the type of person you just loved to be around, the life and soul of the party and always ready with a smile or a joke".
The club, which is solely run by volunteers, says it has lost a valued team member, coach and friend.
They have now pulled together to support John Paul’s family and are planning to hold a minute's silence in his honour at their next match.
Paula Edwards, a close friend, said: "John Paul and his family were our family. He had a larger than life personality and will be missed dearly. He has left a hole in our life."
Club chairman Kelly Scott added: "He was such a genuine, lovely guy, brilliant with the kids and always making people laugh.
"Newcastle East End have lost such a big heart and we will never forget him.
"He was one of those people that lit up the room. I've never met anyone like him."
John Paul was with the club for five years and was coaching the Under 7 blue and Under 12 white teams this year.
"He was proud to be a part of NEEFC," said Mr Scott. "He was always promoting the benefits of the club.
"The outpouring of grief and sympathy shows the type of person John Paul was to his community and football club.
"He was a genuine, talented, fun-loving guy who was as passionate about football as he was about coaching it. He will forever be in our hearts."
Others described John Paul as a "hero" and left heartfelt messages on social media. A number of football clubs also paid tribute to him.
Burradon Juniors Football Club wrote: "Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad time."
Tynemouth United FC said on Twitter: "Our thoughts today are with the family and friends of NEEFC coach John-Paul Couley who has sadly passed.
"Although we all span different clubs, football itself is a community with one clear objective and the loss of anyone from the football family is a huge loss."
And Newcastle Elite Ac added: "Everyone at NEA and the YFDL are deeply saddened to hear the passing of NEEFC coach John-Paul Couley. Our thoughts and prayers today go to his family and friends at this difficult time. A fantastic man who will be hugely missed."
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