TRIBUTES have been paid to a father-of-four and "one of life's good guys", who collapsed and died at Devonport Dockyard.

Richard Davies was just 53 years old when he passed away suddenly on Sunday afternoon.

The Plymouth-born dad and experienced electrician was working as a contractor when he is thought to have suffered a heart attack while on a pontoon.

Mr Davies, who was living in West Park at the time of his death, is survived by four teenage children.

He also leaves behind his mother and three brothers in Plymouth, Northamptonshire and Germany.

One grieving family member said: "He was just a good guy – one of life's good guys.

"His heart was always in the right place, and he's been taken too soon.

"Richard had had a tough year, but he enjoyed his work and he had a lot of friends there in the Dockyard.

"He'll be sadly missed by his family and all his friends in Plymouth."

Mr Davies had attended Sutton High School as a youngster – and he remained in the city to learn his trade.

Upon leaving school he embarked on an apprenticeship at Devonport Dockyard and, with the exception of one short period, spent his entire working life there.

Mr Davies was working at the Dockyard on Sunday afternoon when he collapsed and died.

Police were called to the scene amid initial reports that suggested he may had been electrocuted.

But further examinations are understood to show he is likely to have suffered a heart attack.

The Health and Safety Executive has also been informed about Mr Davies' death as a matter of course, police confirmed.

A Devon and Cornwall Police spokesman said a file had now been passed to the Plymouth and South West District Coroner's Office following investigations by detectives.

Mr Davies' funeral will take place at Efford Crematorium from 3pm on Thursday, February 16.

His family say all friends are welcome to attend.