The family of a “much-loved” Tranent man are expecting hundreds of attendees at his funeral on Monday.

Darren Smith, 55, was diagnosed with lower rectal cancer last September and was told that it was terminal last November. He passed away last month after contracting pneumonia, a complication of the cancer.

The father of two was originally born in Elphinstone but moved to Tranent as a teenager.

He lived on Millar Road with his wife Wendy and had two children, Darren Jnr and Robyn, as well as three grandchildren.

Darren’s mum Betsy also lives in Tranent.

Darren Jnr spoke to the Courier ahead of his dad’s funeral.

He said: “Dad was a much-loved person in East Lothian. He was a massive fan of northern soul throughout his life and enjoyed going to concerts and events all over the country.

“He had so many friends across East Lothian and beyond. Everyone knew him and he would just chat away to people.

“He loved his rugby too. He had friends down in Wales and every year, depending on where the Scotland versus Wales fixture was being played in the Six Nations, he would either travel to Wales or they would travel here.

“He enjoyed the simple things in life and being social.

East Lothian Courier: Darren (second from the left) pictured with family on a holiday to MexicoDarren (second from the left) pictured with family on a holiday to Mexico

“Unfortunately, after his cancer diagnosis, a lot of that kind of stopped. Sometimes he would prefer just to be left alone and would spend days not talking to anyone.

“He was just so friendly with everyone and we all miss him so much.”

Darren ran a taxi for Edinburgh company Central Taxis, where he worked until his cancer diagnosis.

A public funeral service will be held for him at Mortonhall Crematorium, with a wake being held at the Store Club in Tranent from 3.30pm.

Darren Jnr said: “We are expecting hundreds for his funeral. We know people travelling from Wales and all over the country for it.

“I could see up to about 400 showing up. It is great to know he was so well loved and me, my mum and my sister have all received so many messages and gifts since he passed.

“It still doesn’t feel real that he is no longer here. But I can’t thank people enough for their support.”