Downham Market's father of eight Dave Rodgers known as 'Manchester Dave' dies

A popular Downham man known to locals as 'Manchester Dave' died at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Lynn this weekend.

Dave Rodgers, 56, was beloved around the town and will be remembered fondly by locals.

He was the father of eight children.

He was known for his love of Whitney Houston, Manchester United and playing pool.

A Downham resident said: "Everybody knew him, he was a top bloke and he will be missed, R.I.P Dave."

Tributes have poured in on Facebook, with locals remembering him as "kind", "funny" and "a great character".

Dave used to help out at the local fruit and veg stall and was well known on the market.

A few people had speculated that they hadn't seen Dave in a while, as he was a regular fixture in the centre of town and news of his sudden passing has been a shock to many.

It is suspected Dave died of Covid-19, but this has not yet been confirmed.