Tributes have been paid to retired Herts & Essex Observer photographer Jeff Pick, who has died at home in Bishop’s Stortford.

Jeff, who was 61, was found dead at his house.

A post-mortem examination has been carried out to determine the cause of death and an inquest has been opened and adjourned.

Jeff worked as a staff photographer for the Observer from 1976 until 1994 and then as a freelance until his retirement last year.

He was a talented photographer with the skill to tell a story through the lens of his camera, and spent most of his free time travelling the coast in his VW camper van taking the pictures he enjoyed the most, of the sea, nature and wildlife.

Michael Furze, a photographer and friend of many years, said: “He was a larger-than-life character who never failed to put a smile on anyone’s face, whether it was an old friend he bumped into or someone he’d only just met.”

Steve Bates, a director of Hertford-based agency In-Press Photography, who had known Jeff for 20 years, said: “He was always striving for the best. As a photographer he was superb, but he always thought he could do better.”

Observer editor Paul Winspear added: “Jeff had an obvious talent and passion for his profession. He always had a glint in his eye and I shall always remember his boyish giggle.”

Jeff, who was divorced, leaves a son, Tony, daughter, Natalie, and six grandchildren.

The funeral service was held on Wednesday at Parndon Wood crematorium in Harlow.