THE family of a man who died in Amsterdam after going on the run from police have paid tribute to him.
Paul Padden, 29, formerly of Towneley Avenue, Huncoat, was found dead on a bench in the city’s Rembrandt Park on 4 December.
He was said to have fled to Amsterdam in 2004 after being placed on Lancashire Police’s "most wanted" list in connection with a £100,000 drug deal in Rishton.
He had been charged with possession of Ecstasy with intent to supply, but fled before he could be dealt with in court.
Initial reports that he had been shot were later discounted by the Dutch police but his death is being treated as suspicious and a major investigation has been launched.
His mum Pauline Mallen, also of Towneley Avenue, spoke this week of her grief at losing her son.
She said: "He was a lovely lad. He was kind and generous and he had a lot of friends. He was a Burnley supporter and, although he didn’t go to see them regularly, they were always his team.
"He also liked motorbikes and he had quite a few, although he didn’t do any racing.
"He would do anything for you and I am not just saying that because I’m his mum. He will be very sadly missed."
Pauline added that she wanted to thank all her family and friends who had comforted her during her difficult time.
Mr Padden also leaves his partner Carrie, six-year-old son Lewis, good friend Anthony, sisters Denise and Becky, brother-in-law Ryan, grandma Phyllis, father-in-law Ernie and mother-in-law Ann.
He was also the uncle of Maddison, Ruby, Cliona and Orla, and leaves lots of aunts, uncles, cousins and many friends.
A funeral service will take place at Accrington Crematorium next Friday, 28 December, followed by burial at Accrington Cemetery.
All of his friends are then welcome to celebrate his life at the Brooks Club.
