THE family of a 30-year-old bar manager from Basingstoke who died suddenly have said he was loved by so many people.

Tributes to Russell Johnston have poured in following his death on Thursday, March 7, with dozens of people in the town also donating to a fundraising page set up in his memory.

Carolyn Reynolds, Russell’s mum, said the outpouring of love from the community has “truly touched us”, describing her son as someone who “looked after everyone he met”.

READ MORE: 'We are heartbroken' - tributes pour in for Basingstoke bar manager who died suddenly

She said Russell, who was manager at The Tea Bar at the Top of Town, was “the life and soul of the party, and entertained everyone”.

Basingstoke Gazette: Russell JohnstonShe added: “He had so much to live for. He had one older half-sister and three younger siblings who are absolutely heartbroken. He was always there for them. They loved him so much and looked up to him and respected him for what he had achieved in life. 

“I cannot describe the pain we are going through. I loved him unconditionally and so did his dad. He made us proud of how he was getting on with his life and his travels and his managerial role at the Tea Bar. He loved that place and lit the room up with his smile.”

Carolyn, from Basingstoke, thanked everyone who has donated to the Go Fund Me page, which has so far raised more than £6,000.

Basingstoke Gazette: Russell JohnstonShe added: “We have so much love and appreciation for all the donations and all the support and kind loving messages people are showing. We will give Russell the send-off he deserves thanks to everyone.”

To donate visit Fundraiser by Carolyn Reynolds : Russell Johnston Memorial Fund (gofundme.com)