TOUCHING tributes have been left to a popular Malvern man, and "friend to many", who lost his battle with cancer.

Vaughn Albone died this week after suffering with the disease, but people have flocked to pay tribute to him- and share condolences with his wife, Chris.

Deb Harford said: "So sorry to hear your very sad news Chris. May he now rest in peace thinking of you."

Julie Gains said: "A lovely man and a true friend to many in Malvern."

Riley Taylor said: "Condolences to his family. Such sad news

Sohnia Green said: "Thinking of you Chris. So sad, but he's not suffering any more bless him."

Michelle Burns said: "So sorry Chris. Thinking of you. With love."

Elaine Philpotts said: "Lovely man,loved by so many. R . I. P..'Vange'"

Marilyn Stimson said: "R.I.P to such a lovely man."

Christy Hall said: "So sad. Lovely man. RIP Vaughn."

Patrick Tinton said: "Remember Vaughan from school. Love to Christine. RIP."

Tony Dodd said: "Great man. RIP mate."

He hit the Gazette headlines in November, after around 65 people took to the Malvern Hills during a wheelchair push event, organised by Mr Albone, to celebrate his 63rd birthday.

Friends and family took turns to push Mr Albone’s wheelchair over the ridge of the Malvern Hills, starting from the British Camp car park and taking in the summit of the Worcestershire Beacon, before descending to the Clock Tower in North Malvern Road.

The walk, along with a birthday at the pub the same night, was hoped to have raised around £4,000 for St Richard's Hospice.

The former manager of Malvern football team The Gloster Arms FC will hold a minute silence before they kick off for a fixture tomorrow (Sunday).