Charlie Barlow ran 'Barmy Flags', making hundreds of banners for his team
Charlie Barlow was a massive Man Utd fan and ran a successful football flag business
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Hundreds of tributes have been posted on social media to honour a popular Manchester United fan who made hundreds of flags for his club - and others around the world.
Charles Barlow, known as Charlie, was well-known among fans for his business, Barmy Flags, which made and sold custom football flags and banners for clubs up and down the country.
Operating out of Waterside Mill in Greenfield, in Saddleworth, the flags are hand-made and shipped all over the world, with an FAQ on the website giving advice on 'what to do if you spill beer on it'.
A keen runner, Charlie tragically had a heart attack while on the treadmill on November 4 and suffered a brain injury, according to Barmy Flags' Facebook page.
He passed away 'peacefully and with dignity' in hospital on the afternoon of November 14, according to a post on the page. Now, a GoFundMe has been launched to raise funds to give Charlie 'the send off he deserves'.
Organiser Amy White wrote on the page: "Charles’ death was unexpected. He passed away doing what he loved most, running. He often joked that if he ever were to go, that’s exactly how he’d want it to happen.
"He was loved by so many. His family, his friends, the football community, and his local running club. It’s impossible to put into words how much he will be missed.
"Many have asked how they can support us, so we’ve created this fundraiser for those who’d like to help. Any donations would be kindly appreciated in Charles’ honour.
"All contributions will go toward funeral costs and to supporting Charles’ partner, Tracey. Charles was so loved and so we want everyone to have the opportunity to say their goodbyes, celebrate Charles legacy and give him the send off he deserves.
"We miss you Charles. Even writing this at home without hearing you muttering away in the background feels surreal. We hope we’re doing you proud. If only you could see the memories people around the world have shared, they’ve kept us going."
Charlie with one of his flags. (Image: Charles Barlow/Facebook)
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Social media has been awash with tributes to Charlie. His partner Tracey wrote on Facebook: "He brought so much love into my life and I’m so grateful for every moment we shared together.
"I am still processing this tremendous loss and appreciate all your support love and understanding during this difficult time."
John Gubba wrote on Facebook: "Charlie loved our great football club unconditionally and will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved him. We will always miss you my friend."
A memorial banner for Charlie has also been hung up on Warwick Road, close to Old Trafford stadium, where hundreds of fans pass by every match day.
A post written by one of his colleagues Peter, on the business' Facebook page, earned more than three thousand likes and four hundred comments.
"He always carried a boyish energy and charm that disarmed you. You couldn't help but like him," he wrote. "He was a kind, humble and sensitive man (although he would never admit it). He cared deeply about others and what people thought of him.
"He loved his business and was extremely proud of its reputation. He was always worried about competitors cropping up but they always fell by the wayside as they were missing one key ingredient. Him.
"He was the first and he built it from nothing, using his mothers' old sewing machine in his garage with material picked up from who knows where!
"He would drive to obscure places all over the country to hand deliver flags. He just wanted to make sure they arrived on time.
"I will never forget you Charlie. You could be a royal pain in the arse but I loved you and respected you and it was pleasure working for you. I will miss you so much. There has been, and only ever will be ONE 'Barmy' Charlie Barlow."
If you wish to donate to his fundraiser you can do so here.