TRIBUTES have poured in for the man believed to be Britain's oldest "paper boy", who passed away peacefully at his home this week.

Richard Cornthwaite, aged 80, of Markland Hill, was often seen pedalling around the area on his granddaughter Leonie's mountain bike delivering newspapers.

Mr Cornthwaite bought the Markland Hill paper shop in 1968, after he changed from his career as a tailor's cutter and hairdresser in Walkden, where he spent his early life.

Ten years ago he handed over the reins to his daughter and son-in-law, Gill and John Smethurst, but continued for to ensure people got their papers by completing a two-mile round trip.

Mrs Smethurst said: "He was a wonderful man who led an extremely colourful life. He had been here for so long and was loved by many people in the area. He will be sadly missed.

"He had always taken the papers anyway, but one day we needed him to go out quickly and I said: 'Get on the bike.' That was how it all started."

Local Conservative councillor John Hanscomb, who was a regular customer of Mr Cornthwaite, has also paid tribute to the man whom he lived near.

He said: "I have known him since he moved to the area. He was a most loved and highly respected man and was a friend to everybody. He will be sorely missed."

Fellow Conservative councillor Alan Rushton was also saddened by the news of Mr Cornthwaite's death.

He said: "It is like the end of an era. He was such a grand old gentleman who had time for everyone. He was one of the last of the old brigade to be seen on a bike. I am sure he will be missed by many people in the area."