The family of a popular and fun-loving landlord have paid tribute to the man they describe as "a lovable rogue".

Dave Cooper, landlord of the Artilleryman pub in Artillery Road, Colchester, died suddenly on June 16.

Following his funeral, on Friday, his family have spoken of him being both addicted to his work and a great friend to his customers.

Roz Hewitt, Mr Cooper's partner of 17 years, his two sons, three step-daughters, step-son and eight grandchildren were joined by about 400 mourners at the funeral at Colchester Crematorium, which his family said was a testament to his popularity.

"He was a lovable rogue," said step-son Paul Hewitt.

"He was like a real-life Del Boy, I think that is how a lot of people will remember him."

Known to both family and friends as Cooperman, Mr Cooper had previously been landlord of The Angel, Sudbury, and the Goat and Boot, Colchester, before moving to the Artilleryman in 1997.

Mr Cooper was a "landlord from the old school," said step-daughter Davina Hewitt.

Mr Cooper worked to raise money for charity, in particular Stepping Stones at the Wilson Marriage Centre and the East Anglian Children's Hospice.

A keen darts player, tribute has also been paid to Mr Cooper by his colleagues at the Colchester and District Darts League, who have renamed the Licensees' Cup the Dave Cooper Memorial Cup.

Published Monday July 1, 2002

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