THE family of a well-known Walney man has paid tribute to an "amazing man" and thanked everyone for their support following his death.

Former driving instructor, musician and DJ Gordon Cooney died last Tuesday following a battle with Motor Neurone Disease.

The 57-year-old passed away peacefully at his home in Strathnaver Avenue, surrounded by his close family.

Mr Cooney played bass in bands locally for 35 years – including Admiral Jelicoe, The Game, Mayfair, Rain Town, Park Avenue, and the duo Rebound. He also taught thousands of youngsters to drive during his 18 years as a driving instructor and was well-known for his quiz nights at the West Shore Club on Walney.

His wife Gill issued a tribute, describing him as an "amazing man".

She said: "There have been so many tributes on Facebook and we have received such lovely messages that as a family we are overwhelmed, but feel lucky to have been able to share this amazing man with so many people who love him as much as we do."

Evening Mail readers have been posting tributes to Mr Cooney on Facebook.

Shelley Foward: "RIP 😢 to a great man."

Leah Birnie: "RIP to a lovely man ❤️"

Mikey Wilkinson: "RIP Gordon. Top bloke and a friendly face x"

Su Willis: "RIP Gordon 😢 thoughts are with his loving family. Charlie & Su Willis."

Peter Forsyth: "That's so sad to hear he was my driving instructor and he helped me pass my test as well such sad news. God bless, you will always be missed and loved by the people who knew you 😭."

Debbie Moore: "RIP Gordon xxx ❤️"

Kerry Ann Bennett: "He was my driving instructor he was absolutely lovely & always talked about, his family & his "girls" sad news xx"

Craig Taylor: "RIP Gordon. Thanks for teaching me to drive xx"

Caroline Scott: "RIP Gordon xx"

Rob Connolly: "RIP Gordon, top bloke!"

Caroline New: "Such a lovely man, thoughts are with your family and friends, RIP Gordon xxx💗"

Friends and family have been asked to meet at St Mary's Church on Walney at 9.45am on Wednesday. Mr Cooney's family has asked that no black is worn at the funeral.