A FAMILY tribute has been made to an "iconic punk rocker" who was well known on the music scene in Leigh.

Barry Wilkinson, who had the nickname "Punk Baz", died last Sunday after suffering from a bleed on brain.

His niece Vicky O'Brien said Barry, 53, had been to a gig on Saturday, June 15 and fell over on his way home.

Barry's best friend, Frank Hampson, found him at his home the following day and called an ambulance.

He had two operations at Salford Royal Hospital last week but sadly passed away on Sunday.

Vicky, 37, lived with her mum, dad and Barry as a child.

Leigh Journal:

Leigh Journal:

Barry with his niece Vicky in her childhood years

She said: "Everyone in the family are absolutely devastated.

"My uncle was one of the loveliest people around and would do anything for anyone.

"He was an iconic man and will be sadly missed by all who knew him.

"Baz was a punk rocker and always dressed like one.

"He went to lots of festival and gigs and everyone knew him for that.

"He loved bands like the Sex Pistols and Motorhead.

"He was a bit of a character and was always laughing and joking

"He loved animals and had a dog all his life."

Barry, who went to Westleigh High School, worked at Lenders in Astley and Fosters in Leigh.

Vicky said Frank is struggling to come to terms with the loss of his best friend.

She said: "Baz and Frank went everywhere together for 35 years.

"You never saw one without the other."

Baz leaves behind his partner Diane, three brothers and one sister.

An appeal has been set up to raise funds for Baz's funeral. To donate to it click here.