A MUCH-LOVED choir has led the tributes to one of its 'universally respected, admired and loved' members who died earlier this month.

Gareth Rawlinson died at Wrexham Maelor Hospital on March 8, following a short illness.

The 33-year-old has been described as a 'cherished member' of the Johns' Boys Male Chorus which previously appeared on ITV's Britain's Got Talent.

Taking to Facebook to pay tribute, chorus members described Mr Rawlinson as 'caring, kind and compassionate'.

Their statement read: "It was with great sadness and shock that we heard last week of the unexpected death of one of our members, Gareth Rawlinson, following a short illness.

"Gareth was a cherished member of the choir who was universally respected, admired and loved by all of our members. Gareth was always available to help his fellow choristers with whatever support they needed, and was a gentleman in the truest sense of the word."

They added: "Gareth was caring, kind and compassionate of his fellow members, and never sought any praise or attention for his unassuming and diligent work, quietly getting on with things for the good of the choir and his fellow choir mates. Gareth thought the world of his fellow choir mates, and we will desperately miss him.

"The choir would like to offer their heartfelt condolences to Gareth’s friends and family, and particularly to Gareth’s wife, Sam, and his parents, Lynn and Steve, in their loss. Cwsg mewn hedd, Gareth."

Mr Rawlinson, who was from Wrexham, had also been part of the Sirenian Singers choirs and was a former member of Wrexham County Choir and Brass Band.

He was also known for having been a supply teacher at many schools throughout the area, as well as a former shift manager at McDonald's.

Many other people paid tribute to him underneath the Johns' Boys Male Chorus' post.

Sam Snowden wrote: "I've known Gareth since I was 11, in Wrexham County Choir, Four Counties, Sireneans and JB...One of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet and a great friend that I will miss for the rest of my life."

Michelle Humble said: "Gareth was a teacher at my daughter’s school for a while last year and she absolutely adored him. Such heartbreaking news. Thinking of all Gareth’s family and friends at this very sad time."

Jane Hand said: "I am so sad!!! Such a lovely genuine young man who I had the pleasure of knowing through school. My heart goes out to his family and to his wife Sam, who he adored!! RIP."

A funeral service for Mr Rawlinson will be held at Wrexham Methodist Church on Monday, March 25 at 12pm followed by interment at Plas Acton Cemetery.

Family flowers only but donations if desired may be given in memory for The Pancreatitis Trust.

Anyone attending is asked to wear 'Wrexham shirts or scarves or whatever you are comfortable with'.