Ricky's heart was as big as his smile

Fans say farewell at Hatton's home..Oasis in gig nod to pal

- JEREMY ARMSTRONG, HOLLIE BONE and MARK JEFFERIES

THE heartbroken family of Ricky Hatton have paid a moving and tender tribute to the boxing great.

They said The Hitman had a “heart as big as his smile” and their loss is immeasurable.

Fans left flowers, football shirts and boxing gloves outside the 46-year-old's home, where he was found dead by police on Sunday. The cause of his death remains a mystery but officers said there were no suspicious circumstances.

The former light-welterweight and welterweight world champion had fought a series of mental health battles.

His close friends Liam and Noel Gallagher are set to remember Hatton, a fellow Manchester City fan, when Oasis play Live Forever at Wembley on September 27.

He left behind parents Carol and Ray, children Campbell, Millie, Fearne and granddaughter Lyla.

In a statement the family said he was "so much more than a world champion.

"To us he was simply 'Richard', our son. A loving father, grandfather, and brother, and a true friend to many. He had a heart as big as his smile, and his kindness, humour and loyalty touched everyone who was lucky enough to know him." They called him: "One of boxing's greatest champions, who gave everything inside the ring and wore his heart on his sleeve outside of it.