'We had so many good nights singing along to you' - more tributes to club singer Dean Winstanley

Dean, who went by the stage name Dean Michaels, suffered cardiac failure hours after enjoying meal out with his long-term partner and childhood sweetheart Jean Bennett.

Related story: Club singer Dean mourned at just 45The Ince vocalist was acclaimed as a talented regular around the borough’s venues, no more so than at Mr Earl’s and Goose Green Labour Club where he had regular spots.

Dean also made many an appearance at fund-raising events and once hit the headlines after the stepson of Elvis Presley, David Stanley, heard Dean impersonating “The King” with an orchestra at Blackpool Winter Gardens and told him: “Elvis would have been proud to hear you.”

Heartbroken Jean, who had been Dean’s sweetheart since they were teens and has a 25-year-old son, Aaron, with him, was at his side when he lost his battle for life.

Readers have since taken to Wigan Today's Facebook page, sharing their own memories of the talented vocalist.

Donna Bannister posted: "This is such a shock to read. I had so many good nights singing along in your mums pub with him. So sad."

Steph Kennedy added: "Rest in peace Dean, taken far too soon. Thinking of you from our younger school days. Keep singing up there and fly high."

Lisa Barnes said: "One of my faves at the Tippings, my heart goes out to Jean and Aaron, such a huge personality and he will be missed."

Charlotte Baines-Thompson wrote: "Dean was so young. Seen him singing when he came to my works and he was a brilliant singer. My thoughts go out to his family and friends."

Zowie Ormshaw added: "Heartbreaking. Thoughts are with Jean, Aaron and all the family. He was truly loved and such an amazing person."

Family, friends and work colleagues of Jean at Wigan Infirmary have now set up an online fund-raising drive to help pay for Dean’s funeral this Tuesday at 11.30am at Ince Parish Church.