TRIBUTES have been paid to a stalwart North-East fundraiser who dedicated his life to helping victims of steroid side effects.

Laurie Pattinson, of Peterlee, died after 40 years of taking Prednisolone, prescribed for asthma when he was a younger man.

His side effects included diabetes, Addison's disease, brittle bones, thinning of the skin and curvature of the spine.

But he never let his illnesses get him down, and at the weekend, friends, family and local dignitaries remembered the 65-year-old former accountant as a cheerful man who would do anything for anyone.

"It was the smile he always used to have on his face that people liked and everyone would comment on it," said his widow, Angie.

Mr Pattinson died of a heart attack, leaving his wife, two children and three grandchildren.

His determined attitude throughout life won him admiration of many members of Peterlee Town Council.

Former leader of the council Harry Bennett said: "He was a lovely lad and did a lot of good things for people. There are not enough people like him around. It's a shame that its always the good ones who go first."

Mr Pattinson worked for Gasp (Group into Action against Steroid Prescribing) and organised scores of fundraising events.

Founder member Jan Fairbridge said: "He was a wonderful gentleman and will be sadly missed by everyone.

"His wife asked for donations rather than flowers, so he is still helping us."