Tributes have poured in for the landlord of an award-winning Alsager pub who has sadly passed away.

Carl Smith ran The Lodge Inn with his wife Sarah and was well-regarded in the town.

A post on the pub's social media page said: "It is with my heavy heart to inform you that your landlord Carl as passed away at home with me where he wanted to be.

"He is no longer in pain or discomfort - he just fast asleep. I'm sure Carl would like you to raise a glass (or two) for him.

"He's had an amazing four years with you all and he was so grateful for all of your support you have shown us through this time and especially the support you have given us through this hard time over the last few weeks."

Carl Smith ran The Lodge Inn in Alsager with his wife Sarah. (Photo: Nub News)

Regulars have posted hundreds of comments on the post including one saying: "Sorry to hear this news, I've known Carl for over a decade when running the Gresley Arms in Alsagers Bank and The Lodge in Alsager. He was always polite to me and my family and knew how to run a good pub. He will be missed by a lot of people in the area"

Another said: "I'm so very sorry to hear this devastating news Sarah. Carl's passing will leave an indelible mark on so many peoples' lives - not just in Alsager, with the relatively short time you spent there but with the people and communities around The Gresley and the pub I drink in, The Swan (Duck).

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"He was always polite to me and my family and knew how to run a good pub. He will be missed by a lot of people in the area."

The Lodge Inn has notched up many awards from CAMRA Cheshire County Pub of the Year to the South Cheshire Pub of the Year by CAMRA for three times.

It was also included in The Telegraph's expert guide to the 500 Best Pubs in England.