Tributes are paid to town busker Paul

Tributes have been paid to musician Paul Randall, who died in his sleep at his home in the town last Friday morning, aged 47.

Mr Randall busked in Pontefract for at least 15 years, usually in the tunnel under King Charles House, where he would play in his cowboy hat in all weathers.

He was forced to stop performing after suffering a stroke last February.

Mr Randall’s family said the cause of his death was not yet known.

He is survived by his brother Lee, 43, sister Jayne Sinclair, 42, and mother Rhoda Randall, 67. His father Chris Randall died last August, aged 64.

Lee Randall said: “Paul was a well known local figure in Pontefract and was the town’s busker.

“Most people will remember him for busking in the tunnel under King Charles House, he stood and played his guitar what ever the weather in the “windy tunnel”.

Dozens of people posted tribute messages on Facebook.

Gav Hepworth wrote: “He was a lovely bloke. My thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Duane Boucher said: “RIP Paul. You will be missed mate.”

Lee Randall added: “Since the news broke that Paul had sadly passed away peacefully in his sleep on Friday morning, many of his friends and local people that knew him have turned to Facebook to leave messages of condolence and to pay their respects.

“As a family we have taken great comfort from this and would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and wishes.

“The details of the funeral are yet to be finalised but once known they will be published and anyone wishing to attend will be welcome.”