Tributes have been paid to a 'lovable family man' who died following a suspected hit-and-run incident.

Brian Mitchell, of Lowestoft, was rushed to hospital in November last year with injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle.

The 86-year old sustained a severe bleed on the brain and died two days before Christmas.

Graham Mitchell, his son, said: 'It's been a hard journey as he didn't go naturally.

'We are taking just it one day at a time.

'It's heartbreak for my sisters and I, but my mum has had a big part of her life ripped out.'

Brian was born in Lowestoft on August 29, 1931.

He served in the Royal Air Force between 1951 and 1953 as part of his national service.

During which time he belonged to the Queen's Colour Squadron and marched at the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.

Graham said: 'He loved the precision of the RAF, it's something he took with him later as a builder.

'For him building was all about precision. He was a real craftsman and people would wait months to have work done by him.'

Brian was happily married to Jean Mitchell for 65 years, having three children – Susan, Graham and Allison.

Mrs Mitchell said: 'We went out four times before I realised I wanted to marry him.

'He had such a happy disposition you couldn't help but like him. He was so lovable and would do anything for you.'

The enduring love Brian and Jean shared provided constant inspiration for their children.

Graham said: 'The way Mum and Dad lived their life was inspirational for me because of the sheer love and devotion between them.

'I've tried to be my Dad all my life.'

Allison Small, Brian's youngest daughter remembers his kindness and generosity.

She said: 'He would go to the ends of the earth for you, going without just to make sure you had something. We idolised him.'

Susan Burdett agrees with her siblings and told of how her father prioritised time spent with his loved ones.

She said: 'Sunday was always a day for the family to come together and family was everything to him.'

A man has been interviewed in connection with the incident and has been released under investigation.