Tributes are flooding in for well-loved Preston doorman Dave Purcell, who has passed away.

Dave worked at venues in the city including Tokyo Jo’s for decades. Most recently he was Head Doorman at Baker Street.

A post on the Avenham Street bar’s Facebook page said: “Heaven has gained a true gentleman!

“We are all absolutely gutted to have lost a member of our family.

“Our love goes out to all that knew Dave Purcell.

“RIP Dave, you will forever be in our hearts.”

In an emotional post on Facebook, the Tokyo Jo’s Reunion team described Dave as “a very well respected and honourable gentleman”, who made an invaluable contribution to Preston’s nightlife industry.

The post continued: “Dave was a very friendly and fun-loving guy with a beaming smile and the news of his passing this weekend has left all of us in utter shock.

“Back in the day when Tokyo Jos was a five nights a week operation, the venue would not have been able to give you the nights and memories you now hold dear without him and his contribution.

“A very well known face holding the doors at many venues across Preston, Dave’s presence will sorely be missed by everyone in our industry.

“The cherished memories will never leave nor empty the love from our hearts.”

Among the many replies to the post, Lauren Edwards said: “Absolutely gutted. I first met him whilst I worked behind a bar in Preston, such a lovely man.”

Charlot Podmore posted: “Such sad news. I remember working with Dave at Tok’s back in the 90’s, such a lovely guy.”

And Fay Morne added: “Dave was a true gent. Always kept an eye out for me in Tokes, and always loved catching up with him in Review and Baker Street in recent years. Gave me peace of mind knowing he was still working on the doors when my daughter started going out.”

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