Erkan Akdeniz, known as Alex, died of pneumonia at Bournemouth home

Erkan Akdeniz, known as Alex, ran Hair Force at The Triangle in Bournemouth and was well-liked by customers and neighbouring traders.

The cause of his death has been confirmed as pneumonia.

He has been described as a healthy and fit person who loved going to the gym.

The 48-year-old was born in Fethiye in Turkey and moved to the UK in 1996, first living in London and then moving to Bournemouth in 2003.

He leaves a 19-year-old son in Bournemouth and partner of 14 years and, in Turkey, his mum, sister, brother-in-law, nephew and niece.

His funeral is due to take place in Turkey today.

His friend, Francesca Silvestre, runs the Espresso Kitchen in The Triangle, where Alex was a regular.

She said: "Our hearts are filled with pain and our deepest condolences go to his family, especially his son who he loved so much and was so proud of.

"Although Alex’s home was Turkey he was ours, he belonged to the Triangle, looking at his shop from his favourite seat in our cafe, dancing salsa (so badly) in the middle of the walkway, laughing about the silliest thing and making everyone’s day a little brighter.

"He took nothing and no one seriously, especially himself. He would do anything for his friends, and never had a bad word to say about anyone

"He was taken unfairly, abruptly, unexpectedly, way too soon. Our only consolation is that he truly lived his life to the fullest and every day like his last. Alex loved life and he was loved in return. He will be missed atrociously."

In a warm message directed at Alex she added: "I hope wherever you are that you are still laughing. I like to think there was a massive party in your honour when you turned up."

Francesa said she hopes Alex is wearing the finest Italian fashion and added: "I also hope that the coffee sucks in heaven and you’ll have to wait for when my day comes to make you your favourite piccolo, 'thick like lentil soup'.

"Thank you for the eight years of friendship. Love you my brother."