TOUCHING tributes have been paid to a well-known shopkeeper who has passed away at the age of 70.

James 'Jimmy' Metcalfe, from Thatto Heath, died on Sunday, July 21, leading to a flurry of tributes in his honour.

READ MORE > Johnny Vegas records series for the BBC at Metcalfe's

Jimmy was a very popular figure among the Thatto Heath community and had been involved with Metcalfe's shop on Fir Street since the age of 15.

He leaves behind wife of 46 years Joyce; three sons James, Jon and Matthew; seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

He will also be missed by mum, Mary, 96, his siblings, in-laws and nephews and nieces.

"There is quite a lot of people who knew him," said son Jon, 41.

"His grandparents had started the shop that he was still working in. He took over that when he left school at 15."

Jimmy has been described as "fun-loving, with a great sense of humour."

Among those who have paid respects to Jim are comedian Johnny Vegas, real name Michael Pennington, who recorded a BBC radio 4 comedy show at the shop with Jim in 2015.

St Helens Star:

Johnny Vegas at Metcalfe's

"We had done a few things with Johnny and he (Jimmy) did the Radio 4 thing with Johnny and he did a part for the BBC with him too," added Jon.

"He did a sketch and my dad was in that with other landlord and off-licences around the town.

"Obviously people will remember dad for being in the shop, he knew all of his customers by name, he was a bit of a character.

"We have had quite a few messages through Facebook and the community groups, individually and a lot of cards are coming through.

"We have been really touched," added Jon.

The family also expressed their utmost gratitude to the doctor and paramedics who attended and to Louise Quayle at the bereavement centre for all their help.

Jimmy was also involved in the sports scene around the area and played cricket for a few pub sides. He was also the nephew of former Saints player Peter Metcalfe.

On his Twitter page, Johnny Vegas paid his own tribute to Jimmy.

The comedian posted: "St Helens and all who knew him have lost a dear, wonderful man who was a vital part of what we call community.

"RIP Mr Jimmy Metcalfe, you were a formative figure in my youth, from sherbet dabs to sherry on draft, you were an ultimate gent who had a smile to share with all."