Friends and family have paid tribute to Matthew Bigden, describing him as a man of "strength" and a "true fighter".

Mr Bigden died weeks before he was due to become a father for the first time with the birth of daughter, Hannah.

He overcame adversity at a young age to battle through three open heart operations before his first birthday.

Mr Bigden, a gas engineer, died on July 12, aged 24.

Paying tribute to her son at his funeral, his mum Diane Lockey, 47, said: " You will always be in my heart.

"You never complained or moaned about your condition, you just accepted the fact.

"It is such a shame for us to watch him become a man and never see him become a dad or to hold his baby."

His father Steven said: "When he was born he showed such strength and determination as he attempted to survive.

"I realised then we had a true fighter on our hands.

"I will never forget our kickabouts in the park. Your wonderful smile and infectious laugh will remain with us forever."

At his funeral at Oxford Crematorium, more than 200 mourners were each handed a can of Foster's lager, his favourite drink, to toast Mr Bigden's life.

His partner Natalie Bentley said: "You changed my life for the better.

"I will always make sure our daughter knows how amazing you were."

"You will be with me forever, I know you will."