A FAMILY is mourning the loss of a son, brother and partner after a holiday ended in tragedy.

Carpenter Mark Cooper, of Marsh Road, Ruckinge, near Ashford, died of a massive heart attack on his first day back to work after a two-week holiday in Kenya. He was 45.

Mr Cooper had been working on a building site in Folkstone when he collapsed. While on holiday, he had complained of breathing problems but had thought nothing of them. The Kent Air Ambulance attended the scene but medics were unable to save him. A post mortem examination revealed that he suffered a heart attack.

Mr Cooper grew up in the Sittingbourne area before moving away two years ago. He was a former pupil at The Howard School in Rainham and attended Medway Technical College.

He leaves partner of 18 years Ivy Stock, parents Derek and Gerda, who live in Hartlip, near Gillingham, and a sister, Sandra Hope, who lives in Lower Halstow.

He completed a carpentry apprenticeship in Upchurch with Gransden, before going on to technical college and was then self-employed.

His father, Derek, said: “The whole family is still in shock. He was a strong lad, he was 6ft 4in and very handsome. He was a very kind, courteous and private person. He was a lovely man. He had always been a fit and active person.”

His partner, Ivy, said: “This has come as a terrible shock. He was a wonderful man and I love him. He was tall, dark and handsome. I will miss him very much.”