'A fantastic, dedicated young man': Tributes flood in for popular St John Ambulance volunteer

Dean Hill, 24, died on Christmas Eve after being hit by the rare viral infection myocarditis, which attacked his heart.

His funeral is being held from 12pm today at Our Blessed Lady Immaculate, in Village Lane, Washington, near to his home.

When news of the tragedy was posted on the Echo's Facebook page last night, messages from readers came through in their dozens.

Kirsten Ralston posted: "So sad. RIP Dean, so young. Deepest sympathy and thoughts with his family, friends and colleagues.

"Truly shocked, as I think this fantastic, dedicated young man and volunteer looks very familiar to me and my family...I'm sure he helped my own son, when he took ill at home last year, on the May Bank Holiday, and he and his colleague from St John Ambulance attended first before the paramedic was able to get to our home and administered an urgent adrenaline shot when my own son went into anaphylaxic shock due to a infection.

"We will forever be grateful to the St John Ambulance and their paramedics."

Kelly Brooks added: "Didn't know this guy but my heart breaks for his family. So young - life's really unfair. RIP."

Lucy Banwell said: "Really lovely boy, had the pleasure of meeting him a few times. So tragic. God bless him xxx"

Claire Ann Atkinson posted: "Was a pleasure to know you and have you as my student. Rest easy, thoughts with Dean's family and friends xxx"

Shirley McQuillan added: "OMG someone who helps others to be taken at such a young age...x"

Gordon Huffee said: "God only takes the best. RIP young man. Xx"

Maureen Barnett posted: "So sad, so young, sympathy to all who knew Dean xx"

Chris Reid added: "RIP mate. Was good working with you, sleep well."

Beatty Clough said: "RIP Dean thinking of his family and friends today xx so sad."

Angela Smith posted: "Sad story! Such potential but gone too soon! RIP."

Chris Dennis added: "Such sad news. Such dedication to others. xx"

Anne Taylor said: "So sad at a very young age too god bless xxx"

Joanne McCully posted: "Aw how sad, thoughts with his family and friends xx"

Mal Hope added: "Aww how sad RIP young man, God bless x"

Tina Kerry said: "Very sad, someone who helped others RIP."

Gemma Taylor posted: "So sad. RIP. My thoughts are with your family and friends xxx"

Ginette Adey added: "So so sad.....thoughts and prayers for his family....RIP Dean xxxxx"

Michelle Hinder said: "Sooo soo sad RIP young man ....my thoughts are with your family and friends."

Sue Hughes posted: "RIP young man far too young. Our condolences to this young man's family and friends."