The family of a “larger than life” grandad who was found dead on a tram have paid tribute to him and praised an off-duty doctor who tried to save his life.

Stephen Cheshire, 65, from Sale, was travelling for work and due to attend a meeting in London on Wednesday, July 24.

Mr Cheshire caught the tram from Sale that morning but died en route following a heart attack.

He was found by a staff member at Bury Interchange and assisted by several members of the public, including an off-duty doctor who administered CPR until paramedics arrived.

His daughter, Shannon Harwood, 29, has been trying to find the unidentified doctor to “thank her for her selfless efforts”.

In a post on social media, she said: “We are obviously so devastated and heartbroken with the news.

“The police informed me that a member of the public tried to administer CPR until the paramedics got there.

“On a whim, I’m hoping that person sees this message so I can thank them wholeheartedly for all of their efforts in trying to save him.”

Mr Stephen Cheshire leaves behind three children and four grandchildrenMr Stephen Cheshire leaves behind three children and four grandchildren (Image: supplied)

Mr Cheshire grew up in Wythenshawe and worked as the head of underwriting at a risk management company.

He moved to South Africa in his early 20s for work before settling in Gatley, Stockport, five years later.

He leaves behind three grown up children – Stephen, 39, Stacey, 34, and Shannon - and four grandchildren.

Shannon said: “My dad really was larger than life. He always seemed to know just what to say and gave the best advice.

“He was a very professional man and loved his holidays, he had travelled around the world.”

Mr Cheshire was the “biggest Manchester United fan” and had held a season ticket since 1995.

He even gave his daughter Shannon the middle name Cantona as a nod to the legendary former Manchester United player.

Shannon added: “He was the life and soul of any party and had a massive friendship group.

"He had known most of them since they were 16 and the loss to them has been so tremendous too.”

To honour Mr Cheshire’s love of the club, family members will be wearing Manchester United football shirts to the funeral, which will be taking place privately on Friday, August 16.