Ricky's heart was as big as his smile

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

- BY JEREMY ARMSTRONG, HOLLIE BONE and MARK JEFFERIES

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.

"He inspired generations with his fighting spirit, his humility, and his love for the sport.