THE Allen Valleys have been rocked by the death of a much-loved coalman at the age of 43.

Father-of-one Neil Dockray led his family’s long-established coal merchant business with distinction, following the death of his father, Howard Dockray, in 2011.

Neil’s untimely death, in hospital last Thursday, has been met with tributes for a man described by family members as a gentle giant with a heart of gold.

“Neil always aspired to join the family coal business,” said his younger sister, Julie.

“He was a hard working man who was incredibly loyal to the family business, and was well known for delivering coal across Tynedale, and as far afield as Nafferton and Weardale.”

Neil was married to Jennifer for 18 years, and the couple had one daughter, Anna (15).

Jennifer said: “He was a home bird who loved the Allen Valleys and the coal yard here at Catton.

“It was a way of life for him, and it was a case of open all hours. Neil was happy to deliver coal whenever people needed it, even if it was on Christmas Day.”

Born in Hexham, Neil grew up in Catton. He attended Allendale first and middle schools, before joining Haydon Bridge High School.

Although he was a talented cabinet maker, and occasionally enjoyed darts, Neil was only really interested in working for the family firm.

Family members said a photograph (featured) of Neil at work, taken by Colin Potsig, which featured in an exhibition at the Forge Studios, perfectly captured the image of how he will be remembered by many.

Neil is also survived by his mother, Margaret, and older sister Jeanette. His younger brother John Dockray, died in a road collision near Haltwhistle in October 2014.

A funeral service for Neil will take place at St. Cuthbert’s Church in Allendale on Tuesday, at 11.30am.