TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of a former Teesside fire chief, whose funeral takes place this week.

Assistant Chief Officer George Mudd, of Cleveland Fire Brigade, rose through the ranks from firefighter at Redcar Station to assistant chief officer. He served as a senior fire prevention officer and worked at several stations.

Mr Mudd was forced to retire through illness in 2002 and died in a hospice, in Middlesbrough, aged 49, leaving a widow Lynne, and twin sons, Paul and Ian.

Just as his own father, Vince, was a firefighter serving at Redcar, his son Ian is joining the brigade, in October.

Family friend Dave Bennett, a former colleague, said: "George was a well liked and respected officer. He was totally professional and dedicated to duty and a strong family man.

"He was also a keen sea fisherman and supporter of New Marske Sports Club, where members will remember him with great affection."

A brigade spokeswoman said Chief Fire Officer John Doyle, executive director Ian Hayton and friends and colleagues in the brigade offered their deepest sympathy to Mr Mudd's family.

His funeral will take place at St Peter's Church, Redcar Lane, Redcar, at 10am on Friday, followed by a service in St Bede's Chapel, Teesside Crematorium, at 11am.