TRIBUTES have been paid to a “remarkable” and “lovely” Darlington man following his death aged 66.

Kevin Lewis, from Darlington, passed away on November 17 at St Teresa’s Hospice.

The father of three was an environmental campaigner and was involved with Darlington Friends of the Earth.

Nearly 400 people turned out to pay their respects at his funeral on November 29.

Mourners walked to the chapel from Kevin’s house on Swinburne Road to West Cemetery.

Robyn Bage, Kevin’s eldest daughter said: “He was unique and remarkable.

“My dad was just a lovely man.

“There’s not many people as caring as him.

"Dad was a humble man who worked hard his whole life and tried to make the world a better place.”

Father of Robyn (30), Bedelia (28) and Herbert (22), Kevin was committed to sustainability before it hit the mainstream and would always look to fix things rather than buy new.

He was an electrician and had his own business, Lewis Electricals, on Neasham Road in Darlington for over 40 years.

The Darlington electrician was known for going out to fix people’s washing machines or ovens, even on Christmas Day.

Kevin adopted a rescue dog, Max, and the two were great companions for over 13 years.

Kevin was also a big supporter of Food for Thought in Darlington.

Louise, from Food for Thought, said: “At the very core of (Kevin) was a rare natural kindness and generosity of spirit and it was an absolute privilege to call (him) my friend.”

Kevin was a supporter of Darlington Green Party for many years.

Leader of Darlington Green Party, Matthew Snedker said: “Kev was one in a million. No one could forget his dedication to environmental work and of course, his pickled walnuts he would bring to every picnic.

“He was full of personality and we should all be more Kev.”

Coordinator of Darlington Friends of the Earth, Kendra Ullyart, said: “Kevin was a loyal and innovative Friends of the Earth member for over a decade.

“Kevin was one of life’s givers, kind and thoughtful, caring and fun.

“We will miss him.”