TRIBUTES have been paid to a Portishead coastguard who has died aged 63.

Pete Chapman, a former High Street retailer and a long-serving member of Portishead Christmas Lights Committee, died on June 15 after suffering a heart attack.

Paying tribute to her husband of three-and-a-half years, his wife Pat said: “He was a lovely man who will be sadly missed by many. I have already received cards and messages of condolence from more than 100 people.”

Pete, who ran Bullough Bros TV shop in Portishead for 23 years, continued to run a TV repair business in the town after the shop closed. He joined H M Coastguards six years ago and was due to receive a Diamond Jubilee medal for his service on the day he died.

His cremation will take place at Canford Crematorium on July 4 at 11.30am followed by a thanksgiving service at St Peter’s Church in Portishead at 12.30pm. All family, friends and colleagues are welcome at both services. Family flowers only are requested, with any donations to be made to the Coastguard.