COLLEAGUES of a York man who died just six weeks after getting married today spoke of their deep shock at his death.

Former Joseph Rowntree School pupil Mark Dickinson, 34, died at his home in Ratcliffe Street.

His body was discovered by friends who became concerned when he did not turn up for work.

Clive Elliott, who worked with Mark at Barnitts hardware store on Colliergate for 18 years, spoke of a likeable and gentle man who never had a bad word for anyone.

"We are all devastated by his death, we still just can't believe it," he said.

"We keep expecting him to appear on the shop floor."

Mark, who was an only child, was a keen cyclist and record collector and a regular at the Tap and Spile pub.

He joined Barnitts straight from school.

His colleagues said he had been shy and lacking in confidence when he started work but had gradually come out of his shell.

But they said he had become increasingly unhappy in recent months.

"The man who died was not the man we had come to know in his years with us," said Philip Hill, the store's tool manager.

Barnitts director Paul Thompson said Mark was an honest and conscientious worker. "He put a lot of years in here and we are all deeply shocked by his death."

Mark's wife, Joyce, could not be contacted for comment.

An inquest has been opened and adjourned.

Mark's funeral was held today. A memorial service to honour Mark's life will take place at All Saints' Church, Pavement, on Wednesday at 6pm.