To the outside world he was a "legend" who would do anything to help his friends and neighbours.
But behind the smile and laughter, loving dad Karl 'Patty' Patterson was battling an addiction that would eventually take his life. Karl, 52, passed away at his Cullercoats home last month after his health went downhill rapidly due to alcoholism.
On Friday the seaside village he loved came to a standstill as the father-of-three, who has been described as a "local legend" was taken to his final resting place. And today after saying their last goodbyes Karl's loved ones have paid tribute to him.
