Tributes have been paid to a young father-of-three who died on Christmas Day.

David Saunders, 34, known as Dazy, was the butcher at the Farm Butchers shops in St Michael’s and Tenterden.

He had three children aged under five with wife, Kelly, and died suddenly at home in St Michael’s.

Harry Purewal, landlord of The Crown pub in St Michael’s, has started a fund for the family and to meet funeral costs.

He had known Mr Saunders since he was 18.

“It was a terrible shock and is such a tragic loss,” he said. “I had only been speaking to him about four hours earlier in the pub on Christmas Eve.

“The support we have had for the fund has been phenomenal. In the space of 10 minutes of starting it we had a staggering amount.

“Dazy had so many friends. People have been giving substantial amounts to ensure he has the fitting send-off that he deserves.

“We have been overwhelmed by the response and want to thank everyone from the bottom of our hearts.”

To make a donation, do it online to The Crown (Tenterden) Ltd sort code 20-02-62, account number 63984354 with your name as the reference.

Mr Saunders was a supporter of the St Michael’s Community Group and donated a turkey to the raffle at the village Christmas lights switch-on, which was organised by the group.

Chairman Ken Mulholland said: “We are all so sad by the circumstances of his passing – it was horrendous news.

“Everyone knew him. He was a well liked character who supported our group and helped us over the years.”

Mr Saunders was born and brought up in St Michael’s and it is thought he had been a butcher most of his working life.

Farm Butchers are owned by turkey farmer John Howe. He took over the St Michael’s Butchery in the summer and opened one in Market Square, Tenterden, just before Christmas.

Stories you might have missed

'Our little miracle'

Abuser jailed after handing himself in to police

Suffering from Christmas excess? Try dry January

Train death victim 'was kind and generous spirit'