TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular and much-loved 'Coldbrook boy', James Stacey, who died at a factory near Bristol last week.

Family and friends have described the 31-year-old dad-of-one as 'wonderful', 'loving' and a 'gentleman' whose smile would 'light up a room'.

Police were called to the former Cadbury plant in Keynsham at 5.30pm last Wednesday (November 10), following reports of a sudden death involving a digger at the disused Somerdale factory, which closed in March.

Police and the Health and Safety Executive are investigating, and an Avon and Somerset Police spokesman said the force was "keeping an open mind" regarding the circumstances of Mr Stacey's death.

James' parents Gill and Jim thanked all their family and friends for their love and support.

"We want to say a special thank you to James' friends for their kind words," they added.

James' sister Lisa Smit said: "James will be remembered by all for his wonderful, infectious smile."

Former Cadoxton Primary and Barry Comprehensive pupil James was dad to two-year-old Molly, and had been with his partner Hannah Stokes for ten years.

The former builder, who had just begun working as a Bobcat driver, was a popular member of the Tynny Lads skittles team and a Formula One fan.

But he was best known as a popular and devoted family man.

Partner Hannah vowed their daughter Molly would never forget James.

She said: "He was an amazing dad and brought happiness to so many people's lives, and nothing will be the same without him. "I will do him proud bringing up our beautiful baby girl Molly, and that's a promise.

"He had the most beautiful smile that would brighten up the room.

"He was a Coldbrook boy through and through, and a good man."

Hannah's brother Morgan Stokes added: "James was the most wonderful brother-in-law.

"He never failed to make me smile, and he managed to give me the most beautiful niece in the world.

"He's been in our lives since I can remember and we'll always have a piece of him with his gorgeous baby girl."

Sister-in-law Rhii Stokes said: "He was kind, sweet, funny, caring and loved by many and I vow to look after his two girls - Molly and Hannah."

Mother-in-law Kaffers added: "James, the most wonderful son-in-law any woman could wish to have – always smiling. He will never be forgotten."

Cousin Lorna Hodder, in Australia, described James as a loving and caring cousin who she would miss, and Katie Louise Hodder said his loss had left the family devastated.

Lorna said: "I will miss him with all my heart, and life will not be the same."

Family and friends also paid respects on Facebook.

James Swankie said: "He was such a gent and will be more than missed. You don’t find many like him."

Among the many other tributes was one which read: "Rest in Peace, the best bloke I have ever known".