Tributes have been paid to a music journalist turned weekly sports editor who has died aged 77.

David Cooper began his career writing articles for the Melody Maker and interviewing stars such as the Rolling Stones, Adam Faith, Diana Dors and Louis Armstrong.

But after moving to and falling in love with the Isle of Thanet in the late 1950s he joined the Thanet Gazette where he remained until his retirement 13 years ago.

Initially a reporter, David – known as ‘Scoop Coop’ by colleagues – eventually became sports editor and was an avid supporter of Thanet Wanderers Rugby Team, Margate Football Club and Thanet Bowls Club among others.

Former colleague John Bax said:  “Dave was one of the kindest men, he never had a bad word to say about anyone. He knew his Thanet sport inside out.”

His grandaughter Nicola added:  “He would often tell me he felt lucky to be able to earn a living by writing about the things he loved, sport and jazz.”

David, who died in Pilgrims Hospice, Canterbury, on 21 July, leaves his partner Alice and her daughter Jeannie, granddaughter Nicola and great granddaughter Claudia.  He had no children of his own.

His funeral will be held at Thanet Crematorium at 2pm on Monday 6 August 6 followed by a wake for family and friends at The Royal Albion Hotel in Broadstairs.