TRIBUTES have been paid to a "well liked" club chairman who tragically died at a picnic event.
An air ambulance was called to Westlake Park in Bowers Gifford yesterday afternoon after a man collapsed.
Tragically, despite treatment by paramedic crews and help from members of the public, the man died at the scene at around 2pm.
Bowers Gifford and North Benfleet Parish Council, who organised the picnic-in-the-park event, have named the man as Chris Wilkes, chairman of the Benbow Club in Bowers Gifford.
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In a statement, the council said: "It is with deep sadness that yesterday, 15th August, at the Parish Council Picnic-in-the-Park Event in Westlake Park, Chris Wilkes, of Highlands Road and Chairman of the Benbow Club collapsed and, despite receiving treatment from First Aid Personnel, Ambulance and Air Ambulance, sadly died at the scene.
"Chris was a well-known and well-liked member of our community with big personality and ready laugh.
"Parish Council send their heartfelt condolences to all Chris's large family who were also with him at the event.
"They would also like to thank the members of the community who supported the medical team/s in their efforts to revive Chris."
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