A son and daughter today paid tribute to their devoted father who died on March 5, after suffering a heart attack while on holiday in Australia.

Denis Rhodes, 66, of Baildon, died while visiting his brother Jack - who emigrated to Australia 20 years ago - sister-in-law Jean and friend Gwynneth Hampshaw in Perth.

His body has now been flown back to Britain. A funeral service, when a collection will be taken in Mr Rhodes's memory - with the proceeds benefiting the British Heart Foundation, will take place at Baildon Methodist Church at 12.30pm on Thursday, and will be followed by a service at Rawdon Crematorium.

His son Philip Rhodes, of Baildon, said he was devastated by his father's death but was taking comfort from the fact that he died in the company of family and friends.

"He died while enjoying himself with some of his loved ones at Waikiki Beach, which was one of his favourite spots in Australia," he said.

"We've had tributes from friends throughout the area who've described him as a 'true gentleman', kind and gentle and friend to everyone.''

Mr Rhodes was well known in the Baildon area, having worked for more than 40 years as a self-employed painter and decorator prior to his retirement just over a year ago.