TRIBUTES have been paid to musician Alf "Alfie" Bigden who died unexpectedly at his home .

Mr Bigden, who had been drummer for such stars as Tom Jones, Cilla Black, Shirley Bassey, Sir Cliff Richard, Kylie Minogue, Eartha Kitt, Lionel Ritchie, Andy Williams and Tony Bennett, died on Friday..

His musical talent had taken him around the world and this week glowing tributes have poured into his family from around the globe.

Mr Bigden toured with many big bands including the Ronnie Hazelhurst Orchestra, the London Symphony, Edmundo Ros Orchestra and the Royal Philharmonic.

He became the BBC house drummer for ten years and appeared on television shows including Top of the Pops, Come Dancing, The Generation Game, Eurovision Song Contest and Miss World.

His radio and television work was also coupled with numerous television jingles and film credits which included the Bond movies, The Dam Busters and Pink Panther movies as well as Oliver and The Dirty Dozen.

Mr Bigden, who lived in Kings Avenue, had been playing professionally until quite recently.

He leaves a widow, Marion, four children, nine grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

His funeral service will take place on Tuesday at Weeley Crematorium at 10.15am.