THE family of a Dumbarton youngster who died aged just 23 have paid an emotional tribute to their "joker with a kind heart and fun-loving attitude."

Jonathan Foreman, who worked at contact centre Opos Ltd, in Meadowbank Street, passed away after staying the night at his girlfriend's home.

The circumstances of Jonny's sudden death remain unknown and his family is currently preparing for his funeral, which takes place tomorrow (Wednesday) at 10.30am in Clydebank Crematorium at North Dalnottar Cemetery.

Older brother Lewis, 24, told The Reporter how the family are "numb" and "heartbroken" at their loss but he paid tribute to his "adventurer" kid brother.

He said: "Jonny had a love for adventure and made plans to travel and explore the world and everything in it, always wanting to take advantage of life and make the best of it.

"He was a joker with a kind heart and fun-loving attitude, which was noticed by all who met him."

Jonny, a keen motorcyclist, was also a compassionate young man and during his school years he helped to build a school in Ghana, demonstrating his love for other cultures and helping others along the way.

Lewis continued: "He was an avid drama fanatic, starring in several productions over the years including performances at the Tramway Theatre and Kings Theatre in Glasgow.

"His passion was motorbikes and the outdoors and would often make spontaneous trips, making friends along the way through his love of music, movies and his charming demeanour."

Jonathan was a "much-loved guy" who will be missed by friends and family including mum Linda and his girlfriend Hannah and brother Lewis.

Lewis added: "His passing was unexpected and has left those who knew him heartbroken."

Close friends have also described Jonny as a "genuine" guy with a "heart of gold" and an "inspiration" to those who knew him.

A JustGiving page has already been set-up by one of Jonathan's many friends, Rebecca Hinds, to help heartbroken mum Linda and brother Lewis with funeral costs.

Rebecca said on her Just Giving page: "Unfortunately, I'm sure you have all heard the devastating news about Jonathan.

"So I thought we can all pull together and help give him the send off that he deserves.

"Anything would be much appreciated and can be put towards funeral costs or a memorial, whatever the family sees fitting."

As of yesterday morning the total stood at £3190, which far exceeded the target of £500.

Rebecca continued: "Jonny was very much loved as can be seen by the outpouring of love and appreciation which is very much appreciated by Linda and Lewis.

"If you spoke to Jonny for five minutes you knew he'd be your friend for ever.

"He was such a genuine person with a heart of gold and deserves a send off to match. So please give what you can."

The family were originally from the Paisley area but moved to West Dunbartonshire around three years ago- with former St Andrew's Academy pupil Jonny moving across the river to join his mum and brother a year and a half ago.

Khuram Akhter posted this tribute: "Rest in Peace my good friend. You were the bestest friend a person could ask for.

"You were and still are an inspiration to everyone who ever met you. You were always there for me. I love you bro."

And Eileen Adams said: "I am so sorry to hear this awful news. There are really no words that can express how much I feel for Linda and Lewis.

"This is something no parent should have to go through. In my thoughts always xxxx."

And a tribute page on Facebook has been set up for family and friends to post their favourite memories and photos of Jonny.