Readers have offered words of support to the family of a much-loved karate coach and doorman who died in his sleep.
Damion Wood was a well-respected Liverpool City Centre doorman who had a long career in the region's security industry. The 50-year-old South Liverpool dad was also an accomplished martial artist who worked as a bodyguard for celebrities when they visited the city.
His daughter Shanice told the ECHO her dad was the "pillar of the community". She said: "For his children, there are not many places we can go in Liverpool without somebody mentioning his name and having a story to tell.
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"He was loved on a global scale; we have received condolences from Liverpool to South Africa to Japan. The outpouring of love from not only the karate community, who were his second family, but from across the city has been truly comforting. He is described consistently as a true gentleman and he will be sorely missed by all."
Damion's mum Nicky said she would remember her son's "fierce" love for his family. She added: "Damion attended St. Edward's College and later Quarry Bank. He excelled in numerous subjects. Apart from being a martial artist, there were other arts that came easily to him. Unknown to many, Damion was a great artist with a talent for sculpting.
"Martial arts was his life. He started in Lark Lane at the age of 10 and with him being naturally inquisitive, he explored various disciplines. He was a loving son, father, husband, brother and grandfather. He loved his family fiercely."
The doorman, who was nicknamed Switzerland due to being "non-political and a great mediator", was a well-known face around the circuit. As a martial artist, Damion was a 12 time British National Champion, 3 time European Champion and 3 time World Champion and served as Team Captain for GB Karate. Friend Stuart Amos said: "He was truly one of a kind and will be missed more than any of us can put into words."
Following the ECHO's piece from earlier today, tributes for the larger than life character flooded in. Graham Ocego remembered Damion for the help he gave to him in the martial arts world. Graham said: "RIP Damion. Did a good few classes with yourself. Very talented man and certainly a good teacher."
Wayne Moorcroft said: "So sad. Trained in our gym. Lovely fella. Sad to hear this. Respect and RIP Damion." Damien O'Donnell added: "He is going to be missed by a lot of people. What a great guy. RIP big man champ."
Others remembered Damion from his childhood and earlier years. Barbara Miles and her family said: "So sorry to hear of the passing of Damion. Had the pleasure of looking after him when he was a baby in Swiss Road Nursery. So proud of the man he came. RIP beautiful eyes."
Sarah Campbell said: "I first met Damion aged eight back in 1980 when we met as class mates at Dovedale Primary School. He was a nice person even at a young age. Occasionally I would see him in town working and we kept in touch via Facebook. Sincere condolences to his family and friends. RIP and fly high Damion."
Nicola Studley added: "Me and my husband have known Damion for 30 years. What a very sad loss for all his friends and family. An absolute gentleman. RIP our friend."
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