TRIBUTES have been paid to Black Country DJ Stephen Wentworth who has died at the age of 44.

Stephen, who was born in Dudley in August 1972, died on Valentine’s Day (February 14) from congestive heart failure.

Growing up in Quarry Bank, Stephen lived with his parents Alan and Lynn, sisters Sonia and Sarah, and attended Brierley Hill Primary School.

He later moved up to Thorns School where he started learning about DJing, helping out at the school discos and at local youth clubs.

Since leaving school, Stephen went on to establish a name for himself and DJ partner Holly with residencies around Brierley Hill public houses and private functions, including weddings and parties.

During the last few years of life, Stephen lived in Roberts Green Road, Gornal, where he retired from his job as a branch manager for Travis Perkins due to his ill health.

He leaves behind two children, Aaron and Reece.

His sister Sonia said: “He was well known around the Black Country for being a great DJ, but more importantly to us, he was a great brother, son and father.

“It’s just a shame he had to go so soon, but at least he’s not suffering anymore.”

Stephen’s funeral will take place at 11am on Wednesday (March 8) at Gornal Crematorium, followed by a wake at The Hilly House, in Himley Road, Dudley, from 12.30pm.

Flowers or monetary donations, in aid of the British Heart Foundation, should be delivered to J Vernon Kendricks, Vernon House, in Cemetery Road, Lye, DY9 8DB.