'The heart and soul of our family is gone'

Colin Lawson's partner remembers him as kind and caring

Tributes have been paid to an "extraordinary man" who lifted the spirits of everyone around him.

Colin Lawson died from serious injuries at an address in Holbrook Park in South Petherton, Somerset, on 22 August.

His partner, Josephine, said: "Our lives were richer, fuller, and brighter because of him. Whether you knew Colin for five minutes or a lifetime, he left a mark that will never fade."

Graham Janes, 49, of Pear Tree Drive, Chard, has been charged with Mr Lawson's murder. He is due to appear at Bristol Crown Court for a pre-trial and plea hearing on 17 September.

Josephine said Mr Lawson, 43, was a kind and considerate man, who was a good father, stepfather and "proud" step-grandfather.

"The heart and soul of our family is gone, and the silence left in Colin's absence is deafening," she said.

Her tribute continued: "To know Colin was to know warmth, generosity, and a spirit that lifted everyone around him.

"Proudly Scottish, he carried his heritage with joy and pride, always ready with a story, a fact, or a witty remark that made you smile and think.

"His knowledge was vast, his humour infectious, and his compassion boundless. He gave freely of himself, his time, his help, his love, never asking for anything in return.

"To me, Colin was my light, my love, my best friend, and my everything. Together, we built a beautiful life between Edinburgh and Somerset, a life full of laughter, love, and unforgettable memories.

"We will carry him with us always, in our hearts, in our stories, and in the love, he gave so freely. He will be forever loved, forever missed, and forever in our hearts."