Heartfelt tributes have been paid to a "devoted family man" who tragically and unexpectedly passed away while on holiday in Spain.

Richard Sawyer, 47, from Leigh, sadly passed away suddenly on August 16.

His partner, Emma Mann, 45, son, Daniel Mann, 24, parents, Sharon and Les Sawyer, brother, Robert Sawyer, and sister Johanna Rawlings have been left heartbroken by his tragic passing.

Richard, who has been remembered for his smile and positivity, was a coach and committee member at Corinthians in Southend.

In his memory, a charity football match has been organised for tomorrow to raise money for the charity Cardiac Risk in the Young.

Cardiac Risk in the Young is a charity that raises awareness of young sudden cardiac death, supports those affected, supports CRY’s screening programme and funds research and pathology.

Together, Emma, and Daniel, said: "We are all devastated.

Heartbreak - Richard Sawyer, with partner Emma Mann, and son, Daniel MannHeartbreak - Richard Sawyer, with partner Emma Mann, and son, Daniel Mann (Image: Daniel Mann)

"Richard was a devoted family man, who loved spending time with his family, dog Freddie, and friends.

"The last few weeks have been incredibly difficult for us and everyone who knew Richard.

"His presence, smile and positivity are so sorely missed.

"We have chosen CRY to raise awareness in the hope that cardiac scanning will help to save the lives of others."

The charity football match will be played tomorrow at Stambridge Memorial, in Rochford.

Sadness - Richard Sawyer was a coach Corinthians Sadness - Richard Sawyer was a coach Corinthians (Image: Daniel Mann)

It will be between Corinthians XI v Battlesbridge XI, with funds being raised for Cardiac Risk in the Young.

His club, Corinthians in Southend, also paid tribute ahead of the game.

In a statement, they said: "As many of you know recently the Corinthians family have lost another great man.

"Always smiling and joking, Richard was a loved member of the club, an assistant manager of the women’s team and supporter of all other teams.

"He was a huge part of starting our mini soccer section and pushing the club forward. Richard played a bit in the Vets set up before moving into coaching.

"We would like to share all our best wishes and condolences to Emma, Dan and the family at this tough time.

"We are all thinking of you."