TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of a well-respected community figure. 

The Manningham-based BEAP Partnership announced the death of centre manager Abu Saleh, 85, yesterday and said they were "devastated" at the sad news. 

His funeral was held this afternoon and many touching tributes have been left.

Shummel Uddin, from BEAP, which works to offer support to people living in Manningham, said he had served communities up and down the country over the years.

He described him as a "humble" man with a great deal of wisdom. 

"Every person that went through the door [of BEAP], he would greet them, he would say 'hi', give them a smile. 

"He would never ignore anyone, that's what made him so special. He was one of those unsung heroes.

"He was a role model and example to us all."

Under the BEAP announcement, one tribute said: "He has been a 'rock' for BEAP clients and its management, serving the community with grace and fairness.

"May his soul rest in eternal peace."

Mr Saleh is pictured below in November last year, holding the first brick to be installed at the new £1.2m sports complex next to Valley Parade.

It's attached to the existing BEAP Community Partnership building on Cornwall Road.

Mr Uddin said: "He said he really wanted to see the new complex. It's sad that he won't see that through."

Bradford Telegraph and Argus:

Another tribute read: "He was a lovely person and incredible pillar of the community."

While one well-wisher wrote: "He was a great and fair man, who supported and empowered girls and women into education and sports."

Another tribute said: "He was a backbone of our community. He devoted his whole life working for the community In Leeds, Leicester, and Bradford.

"No doubt he would be greatly missed."