Darts players around Cumbria are in shock after the sudden death of a county champion aged only 47.

Stephen "Bully" Bonnett, of Maryport, was taking a few practice shots at home before a match when he suddenly fell backwards.

Partner Isabella Grace said she called the ambulance and administered CPR but Stephen never regained conciousness and died four days after being admitted to hospital.

She has since learned that he had triventricular heart disease. His sis sister had died of the same condition at age 45 but Stephen had no idea that he had the condition.

Stephen Bonnett was one of the county's most successful darts players, representing Cumbria on more that 221 occasions.

General secretary of Cumbria Darts Hilary Kirkbride said: "It has been a big shock. He played for the county for 30 years, since he was 17. He was also chairman of Cumbria Darts for a long time, retiring in 2011."

But she said what he will most be remembered for is his willingness to help others.

That was echoed by Bill Barnes from the Ewanrigg Community Centre.

"We started a darts club for children at the centre and had around 30 turning up each time. Unfortunately it eventually folded because we did not have enough volunteers. While we were going he was fantastic. He was so patient with the kids - and I know that is something that he did during matches, too. He would encourage anyone. He lived for darts and wanted to help others to enjoy it too."

Stephen is from Sedburgh but moved to Maryport nine years ago to be with his partner Isabella.

In recent years he has suffered some health problems but none were linked to heart disease.

He lost a toe to Diabetes and found it hard to balance.

"I don't think he was the same darts player after that," Isabella said, "but he still enjoyed the game and continued to play matches."

She said the suddenness of his death had obviously been a huge shock but added: "It is comforting to know that the very last thing he was concious of was throwing a dart because that is exactly how it happened. he threw that dart and then collapsed. He was doing what he loved."

Tributes have poured in to Stephen on social media with one common refrain: he was a friend and he was kind.

Stephen bunting wrote: "It was a privilege to know you mate. Such a kind, caring and funny man with time for everyone."

Barbara Shaun Greatbatch: "Big in stature and a great big heart , loved his humour and his frankness, so sad Heather in: "Stephen Bonnett - Nothing but love. R.I.P"

Isabella said her partner was the most honest man she had met - sometimes too honest. He had no sides to him and made her life.

Chris Smart added: "I hear he played a 180 in his last game."

Friends have started a crowdfunding page to help fund Mr Bonnett's funeral service, which was held in Sedburgh yesterday.

Anyone who wishes to contribute can do so by visiting www.gofundme.com/mr-stephen-bonnet?