The children of businessman and chef Derek Patterson have paid tribute to him at his funeral today.
Hundreds of people packed into Hillsborough Presbyterian Church to pay their respects to the co-owner of the Plough Group of restaurants and renowned chef.
The 53-year-old father of four was found dead close to his home in the Co Down village on May 28. His death is not being treated as suspicious.
The village church could not contain the number of mourners who attended the service. Hundreds more watched the funeral on screens in the neighbouring church hall or stood outside in the grounds.
Rev Allen Sleith, who led the service, said the size of the congregation reflected the "respect and love" people had for Mr Patterson who had experienced a "moment of darkness".
The businessman's oldest daughter Tash broke down as she praised "my best friend".
"Our hearts are completely shattered," she said. "We understand that you couldn't stay forever and that's okay."
She added: "I hope I make you proud and I promise to do my best."
Reflections written by Mr Patterson's three youngest children were read by friends and family.
His son Max praised his father's "infectious smile and ability to light up a room" and described him as "my rock... and my hero".
"You supported me throughout these 17 years of my life and I will never forget what you have done for this family," he wrote.
Son Toby recalled racing bikes and fishing with his father.
"You were always so passionate above everything, a true character. Without you I will struggle," he wrote.
Youngest daughter Amelia (11) said she will keep her father's promise to "get frog spawn".
"My most fond memory is of him cutting grass and putting my feet where his had been," she wrote.
She added: "Dad, you made an empty room feel full just by being in it."
Mr Patterson was well known for his hospitality businesses and as a co-founder of the Hillsborough International Oyster Festival.
Rev Sleith told mourners, who included chefs Michael Deane and Danny Millar and DUP MLA Edwin Poots, that his family described him as a "fun-loving big eejit".
"We can't truly fathom what darkness crept over Derek last week," he said.
He said Mr Patterson's motto was "work hard, play hard" and he had a "strong work ethic and an eye for detail".
The businessman and wife Pamela celebrated their 23rd wedding anniversary last month.
Mr Patterson is survived by Pamela, children Max, Natasha, Toby and Amelia, parents Desmond and Muriel and brothers William and Richard.
Mourners gathered in the Plough Inn after the service.
