TRIBUTES have been paid to a professional golfer who has died.

Fred Thorpe, 67, of Wathcote Place, Richmond, North Yorkshire, died suddenly after suffering a ruptured aortic aneurysm last Monday.

Mr Thorpe, who was originally from Cheshire, joined the Royal Scots Greys in 1956.

At 26, he became the regiment's youngest staff sergeant and during his time with the Army served in Germany, Hong Kong and Aden.

In 1968, he left the Army to become the PGA golf professional at Catterick Golf Club.

He also coached part-time at courses including Bedale, Thirsk and Richmond, before moving to Darlington Borough Council to be the professional at Stressholme course.

After 16 years working in Darlington, he became director of golf at Romanby Golf and Country Club.

Mr Thorpe's wife, Vivienne, described her husband as a wonderful and kind man, who she adored.

She said: "It was a devastating shock but it happened quickly and painlessly - and it's a comfort to know he does not have to bear the loss and grief that I'm suffering."

Mr Thorpe leaves Mark, his son from a previous marriage, and grandchildren Rachel and Ellie.

His funeral was held at the Garrison Memorial Church, in Catterick Garrison, on Friday.

A eulogy was read at the service by David Edwards, who was tutored by Mr Thorpe and has since become a golf professional.