THE daughter of a popular taxi driver and former doorman has paid tribute to him after his sudden death.

Mark Naylor, who worked for JR's@Avacab in Leigh for the past few years, died on Monday morning at the age of 60 after suffering a heart attack.

He was employed as a doorman for more than 30 years and operated at venues in Leigh including Cafe Stella on King Street, the old Pulp club on Railway Road, now Est 1899, and former hotspot Barbarellas.

Mark also worked at clubs in Manchester and Blackpool as well as concerts and security for Leigh Centurions. 

A father-of-five and a doting grandad, Mark was a Centurions season ticket holder, a devout Manchester City football supporter and a fan of other sports such as darts and crown green bowls.

His daughter Lindsey said: "He was an absolutely fantastic dad and a great grandad who had a heart of gold.

"He had three sisters and three brothers and he used to go on caravan holidays to Blackpool where he loved going and it was like a second home for him.

"He was very well-known in Leigh and he lived there for 15 years.

"When he was a doorman he always helped anyone who was in trouble, and later, when he became a taxi driver, he would look after friends who were struggling to get home.

"Everyone trusted him like he was family and I cannot believe how loved he was.

"The response from people in the town since he died has been overwhelming and there will always be a place in our family's hearts for them."

Bingo lover Mark also worked as a coach driver to European destinations and volunteered to carry out charity rides regularly.

In his younger years, he also played rugby league for Warrington and Salford.

A crowdfunding page has been launched to raise funds to make a headstone which includes a Leigh Centurions badge and a Manchester City theme on it.

To donate to it click here.

The Abbey pub on Abbey Street is also holding a darts night tomorrow, Monday, at 7pm in memory of Mark, who used to play there.

The entertainment will include raffle prizes to raise funds for Mark's family and is open for anyone to join in.

Mark's funeral will take place at Peel Green Cemetery on Liverpool Road in Eccles at 1pm on Friday with anyone who knew him welcome to attend.

A bucket collection has also been set up at the JR's@Avacab taxi office on King Street.