A PAUPER'S funeral for a homeless man who was found dead in Barrow at a dog-walking spot is set to take place this week.

Police launched an investigation after the body of homeless Paul Hawkrigg was found in shrubbery behind Premier Tiles by Channelside in Barrow earlier this month.

The 60-year-old, who had been living homeless, had recently been discharged from hospital and police launched an urgent appeal to find members of his family.

The footpath in Channelside Haven close to Walney Bridge and North Road was cordoned off by officers after a member of the public found the body in shrubbery behind Premier Tiles.

Police launched an urgent appeal to find Mr Hawkrigg's family, who have since made contact and a funeral is set to take place on Thursday at Barrow Cemetery.

Friend of 18 years, Zirvana Smith, said Mr Hawkrigg looked after her daughter when she was younger.

Zirvana said: "Paul Hawkrigg was a good friend of mine and my daughter's for about 18 years.

"I always saw him in the town centre then I didn't see him for a while as he was in hospital with cancer but he overcame that.

"I saw him a few months ago in the market. He was a true friend and gentlemen who would help in anyway possible. I'm so upset as I didn't know he was homeless. He was a very proud man.

"I'm going to miss you wonderful smile. RIP Paul Hawkrigg my friend sleep tight.Thinking of your family and friends at this sad time. Love your heartbroken friend."

After police launched the appeal to find Mr Hawkrigg's next of kin, Barrow man Liam Fenton, of Devon Street, created a Go Fund Me page in order to try and raise £2,500 to pay for Mr Hawkrigg's funeral. This money will be used towards the cost of the funeral, which is being funded by Barrow Borough Council.

Elaine Burley, the owner of Oasis florists in Barrow and Daisy Chain in Dalton, has agreed to create a coffin spray free of charge.

Mr Hawkrigg's funeral is set to take place at Barrow Cemetery on Thursday September 29 at 10am. The notice published in the Evening Mail states that "family and friends are invited to a graveside service".

Anyone who would like to attend the funeral is welcome to attend. The service will take place at the graveside, in a section close to the baby graves at Barrow Cemetery.

If anyone would like to say or submit a few words to be included in the eulogy, they can contact Little & Caine on 01229 820747.