A FUNDRAISER has been set up to help pay for the funeral of a dad-of-14 who died suddenly.

Bob Ward leaves behind 14 children, most of who are very young, and five grandchildren.

Bob worked at Les & Rita's Fish Bar in Rhyl. He was described by Kay Pidduck, part owner of the fish bar, as a "fabulous" member of staff.

Kay said: "Bob was just so nice and he has been brilliant since he started with us earlier this year. All the girls at work are completely devastated as he was in work Tuesday and Wednesday then he took ill on the Thursday morning.

"I spoke to him on Saturday morning and we were laughing and joking as normal and he was praising all the staff at the hospital that were looking after him and the amazing job they were doing. A few hours later I got a call from his daughter with the devastating news of Bob passing away.

"We used to see a lot of his younger children popping into work to see him.

"He was only 54. Even at that age he was still our 'Spud Lad'. He would do anything for anyone."

Bob Ward worked at Les & Ritas Fish Bar. He has started at the fish bar earlier this year. Picture: gofundme

Bob Ward worked at Les & Rita's Fish Bar. He has started at the fish bar earlier this year. Picture: gofundme

Les & Rita's Fish Bar posted on Facebook: "He [Bob] hadn’t worked with us for long but it felt like he had been with us for years and he fitted in just perfectly bringing his fabulous sense of humour to us all every day. We can’t imagine what your family are going through at this really tough time Bob as this was so sudden.

"I still can’t believe it, our chats over our morning coffees."

Bob was well-known around Rhyl.

Nathan Boardman has organised a gofundme fundraiser in aid of his daughter Amber Ward.

A statement on the page says: "On behalf of the Ward family we are saddened by the great loss of their dad and grandad.

"Bob was a well-known face around Rhyl and to those that knew him will know what a character he was. This gofundme will help the family with funeral expenses due to his sudden death."

Residents have taken to the Les & Rita's Fish Bar Facebook page to pay tribute to Bob.

Ann Buchanan said: "Heartbreaking. Known Bobby for years, we’ve had some laughs. Still can’t believe this is true."

Clive Senior said: "Bob was always friendly and warm. Used to chat a lot to him."

Jacquie Mcalpine posted: "So sorry for your loss. Known Bob for years as the kids all went to school together. My thoughts are with you all."

Lesley Smith wrote: "Such sad news x as you say one of your own fabulous staff members, it is heartbreaking."

Rhyl Mens Shed said: "RIP bob, thoughts are with your family. We were only talking a few weeks back about doing the allotments behind L&R's."

To donate, Visit www.gofundme.com/f/in-memory-of-bob-ward