TRIBUTES have been paid from far and wide to a popular Andover musician, tour manager, DJ and friend to many who has died suddenly at the age of 34.

Steve Dillon, also known as Stevie D, died at his Redbridge Drive home after having a suspected aneurysm in the early hours of Wednesday, 23 March.

The 34-year-old grew up in the town, attending St John the Baptist School then Harrow Way School, which he left in 1997.

Steve went to Andover College to study music, during which time he also worked in music and video store MVC.

After leaving college he worked, due to his love of rock music, at The George Inn first as a barman, then assistant manager, manager, and finally as the last landlord.

He was in a number of bands, most recently with Sondura and Power Funk Trio, and was also a driving force behind the local music scene giving many bands starting out their first gig at The George.

He was also one of the founding members of Crispystock, a local event created in 2006 in memory of Christopher Vearnecombe, to raise money for Headway - a charity which cares for those who have suffered severe head trauma.

In recent years he followed his dream and started his own tour company,and also helped set up the Rockhouse.

Sondura band manager Steve Andrews said: “Steve was always more than just a member of Sondura – to us he was a friend, a brother and a family member and we are devastated by this loss.

“Everyone who knew Steve loved him and the incredible outpouring of messages and condolences on social media in the days after his death are testament to that fact, as is the shrine to him at the George in Andover.

“He was a truly lovely man, I am still struggling to accept that he is gone because he was such a presence in our lives.

“I believe that we would all be better people if we would “Be More Steve” and that would be a fitting way for us to honour his memory.

Ageless Oblivion said: “Steve was by every definition a true gentleman and an undeniable driving yet positive force during the early days of this band (back in the days when The George in Andover was our main haunt).

“He will no doubt be missed by many, including us.”

United Front H.C said: “This week we have seen the loss of a dear friend of ours, he was a great man, musician, sound engineer and a real ambassador to the Andover music scene.

“We would like to send our love and condolences to his family and his closest friends in this sad time.”

Musician Jake Ward said: “Very sad to hear of the passing of Steve Dillon, the first guy to give so many bands a shot in Andover, including my own. Thoughts are with his friends and family.

In Darklight said: “Really sad news to hear that local live music hero and bass player Steve Dillon has passed away.

“He was truly a genuine and all around nice guy – what a huge loss to the live music scene he will be, in Andover and beyond.

“RIP Stevie D, from all the guys at In Darklight.”

Heaven Shall Fall said: “Steve Dillon was one of the main people to keep the Andover music scene going with The George.

“He took a chance and gave us our first Andover show (our second show ever) and was one of the nicest guys within the scene.”

KURBd music said: “The loss of local musician Steve Dillon has broken the hearts of the music community in Andover. A great man. A great talent. RIP .”

Friend Natalie Maloney said: “Stevie D was a great guy and an awesome friend.

“Some of the best memories I have include Steve.

“He was a big part of the musical community and loved by all.

“He may be gone but he will never be forgotten. Sleep well my friend.”

Close family friend Paul Thatcher said: “From all of his friends and family we would like to thank everyone for their love and support at this difficult time.

“Steve gave so much to so many and yet expected so little in return.

“Without him there wouldn’t be a music scene left in Andover.

“I spoke to his dad and he is overawed by the love and respect that people have given that man, and rightly so.”

Steve Dillon’s funeral is at 11am on Wednesday, April 13 at Basingstoke Crematorium and then back at the Station Hotel – Steve’s favourite pub in recent years. All are welcome.