For almost three decades Dave Richardson’s legendary fry-ups won the hearts - and filled the bellies - of customers at the Sportsman cafe.

And it was those patrons who this week paid tribute to the 65-year-old following his sudden death on Friday.

His passing has shocked family and friends, including brother Paul, who said the many messages of sympathy and support on Facebook have been a comfort to them.

He told how Dave visited Canterbury in 1989 while a rep for a lighting company and saw the Wincheap cafe was for sale.

He decided to buy it and began a new career working for himself.

Paul, who lives in Sevenoaks, said: “Dave previously had a variety of jobs but the cafe became the love of his life and his staff were like an extended family.

“He was really fussy about things like the quality of his meat - it wasn’t just about making as much money as possible.

“It suited him because he was a very sociable chap, and it’s been nice to read the many comments from people about how well-liked Dave was.

“Although he hadn’t been in good health recently, we just weren’t expecting it.

“He went to sleep on the Thursday but just didn’t wake up the following morning.

“It’s too early for any funeral arrangements because I think there may be a post-mortem as his death was unexpected.”

Lancastrian Dave was twice-married and divorced and had two daughters and a step-daughter.

He lived in accommodation below the cafe, where customers learned of his death.

Among the many tributes on the Canterbury Residents Group Facebook page was one from Steve Lake, who wrote: “So gutted, such sad news.

“I knew Dave for years.

“Best cafe and grub in Canterbury as well as all staff. A sad, sad loss.”

Shari Brown Gibson posted: “Can’t believe it! So glad I went in last week.

“A truly lovely man with a kind heart.

“He will be sorely missed.”

Rose Beaney added: “RIP Dave. It was 28 years ago I worked for you and you was a perfect boss, so kind-hearted.”