TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular landlord known as “Big Geordie Joe”.

Joe Heron, 71, landlord of the White Horse Hotel in Southminster died on October 14 following a heart attack.

Mr Heron, known by friends and customers as “Big Geordie Joe” was originally from North Shields, Northumberland, and had been running the pub on North Street for more than 30 years.

The grandfather, who was hugely respected by his regulars, was “utterly devoted” to running the White Horse.

Joe’s wife Sandra said her husband was “the best his family could have wished for”.

She said: “My husband was an absolutely wonderful man. As well as being the best husband and father to our children we could ask for, he was absolutely devoted to running his pub the best way he could.

“When we first moved down here in 1986 we initially put a bid in for The Railway Hotel in Burnham, but we weren’t successful, so we then pursued the White Horse.

“At first we didn’t really like the idea of it, but after so many successful years we were very glad we took it on, Joe loved it to bits.

“It was integral to his and our lives for so long, always trying to create the best environment for our customers and welcoming in new ones, and he was universally loved by all who came in here. He’s going to be greatly missed by all who met and knew him.”

Joe is survived by his wife, his four children Judith, Paula, Deborah and Vincent, and five grandchildren. The family plan to continue running the White Horse in his memory.

Sandra added: “My husband was a loving man and a brilliant landlord, he was always there for help and enjoyed lending a hand to his customers, friends and family.

“We had four wonderful children together and adored our five grandchildren.

“Joe would always make time for all of them. While he was devoted to his pub, he loved his family, and that’s something everyone will remember him for, just being a whole and genuine human being.”