A big event paying tribute to a bartender extraordinaire who lived up to his ‘Mad Dog’ moniker will be held in Sidmouth tomorrow (Saturday).

Sidmouth Herald: Everyone had a great time at the Dogtastic event.Everyone had a great time at the Dogtastic event. (Image: Archant)

Dave Maddock – awarded his fitting nickname by a misspelled payslip – arrived in the town in 1986 and never looked back. He died after a battle with throat cancer just over 12 months ago on July 7, 2017 - just before his 52nd birthday.

A celebration of his life – Dogtastic Day - will be held at the Volunteer Inn, in Temple Street from 1pm until late.

There will be fancy dress – something beginning with D, fairy crowns with Lily Bloom, Funkifeet dance workshops, acoustic open mic, facepainting and glitter tattoos, a barbeque and cocktail bus, DJ Nuntastic and a raffle, as well as plenty of fun and games.

There will also be bunting making – organisers want to build a ‘rainbows to heaven’ by getting the community to put their personal messages, photos and love on a flag to loved ones who are no longer with us anymore.

Sidmouth Herald: Everyone had a great time at the Dogtastic event.Everyone had a great time at the Dogtastic event. (Image: Archant)

All proceeds of the event will go to Sidmouth Living with Cancer and Sid Valley Food Bank.

Dave’s wife Gill Maddock said: “Dog and his friend Brian McConnel were diagnosed with cancer around the same time ten years ago.

“They started fundraising for Cancer Research but Brian tragically died - he was never far from Dog’s thoughts though.

“I believe he learnt from Brian, gave him strength for his own battle. Now they are chatting over a pint or two.

Sidmouth Herald: Everyone had a great time at the Dogtastic event.Everyone had a great time at the Dogtastic event. (Image: Archant)

“Dog was a truly unique character. A walking tonic for everyone he knew and loved.

“He adored life, music and fun. He was very smart and honest to the bone and a top barman. The space he has left is infinite.”

Entrance is £5 and under 10s are free. Tickets can be bought from The Volunteer Inn, or The Barbers, in Church Street.

Flags, can be picked up and dropped off at The Volunteer Inn, The Barbers, The Radway or the Black Horse – they are 50p each.

Small donations are requested for the workshops.

Visit www.facebook.com/volleysid or call 07582 884777 for more information.