THE friends of an East Lancashire businessman who died while on a golfing holiday in Spain have paid tribute to "one of life's nice guys".

Kevin Collinge, 59, of Bracken Grove, Helmshore, died overnight on Monday during a four-day trip with eight pals in La Manga, southern Spain.

Kevin had heart by-pass surgery 15 years ago and it is thought his death may be heart related.

Grandad-of-one Kevin, was chief executive of Kirklees Stadium Development, who are responsible for the McAlpine Stadium, Huddersfield. Before that, he worked for a wallpaper company and a kitchen company in Preston before spending two years alongside best friend Paul Fletcher, selling discount kitchens in Burnley. He took over the role of chief executive from Paul seven years ago.

Manchester-born Kevin, a keen sportsman and Manchester United and Burnley fan, was married to wife Christine for over 30 years and the couple had twin daughters, Jennifer and Joanne.

Paul, 52, who had been friends with Kevin for the past 30 years, said: "I met Kevin when I was about 19 and he came into the printing business where I worked . We have been friends ever since. We had played golf all day on Monday and Kevin never complained of feeling unwell. We had dinner and then had just one drink at the bar before retiring early. Sadly, Kevin died in the night.

"Wherever he went and whatever he did, Kevin was always well liked and well respected. He was just one o=f life's nice guys."

"He was a typical family man and I don't know anyone who had a bad word to say against him.

Sir John Harmine, chairman of Kirklees Stadium Development, said: "Kevin's loss is a devastating blow to the company and our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this extremely sad time."