A MUCH-LOVED Farnworth character has died, aged 40.

Phil Tickle died in Salford Royal Hospital on Tuesday, January 6, after complications following a fall.

His family, based in Avondale Avenue, have paid tribute to a “lovely” man, while people who knew him have changed their Facebook profiles pictures to his face as a tribute.

Mum Linda, aged 64, said he will be greatly missed.

She said “He was a wonderful son.

“He loved other people and doing things for other people.”

Mr Tickle was registered disabled after a bad road traffic accident when he was 10 years old, which left him with brain damage.

The former Cherry Tree Primary School and St James’ CoE High School pupil appeared in The Bolton News in November when he launched his own political movement, the People’s Party.

At the time, he said: "I don’t think the parties are doing enough for the people.

"There’s Tories arguing with Labour, Labour arguing with Tories and UKIP is always arguing with them both.

“I think all parties should look at each other and pick the best bits. It doesn’t matter if it’s Tory, UKIP or Labour, if it’s right for the people.”

Mr Tickle slipped on black ice on December 26, and was treated at the Royal Bolton Hospital before being transferred to Salford Royal.

There, he underwent surgery, but it is understood to have died after suffering complications.

Mr Tickle leaves his mum Linda, dad Tom and sister Wendy.

Details of the funeral have yet to be announced.