A family has paid tribute to a man who has died just over three years after having a heart transplant, describing him as a "marvellous and strong person".

Carl Flynn, from Failsworth, suffered a heart attack aged just 25 in 2015, which led to him having a left ventricular assist device (LVAD) fitted.

In November 2020, during the pandemic, Carl had a heart transplant after getting a donor heart.

However, just over three years after the transplant, Carl died at Wythenshawe Hospital on February 28 this year aged 35.

Paying tribute to him, his aunt Dionne Flynn said: "Carl was a marvellous and strong person who had his heart transplant in November 2020 after having an LVAD fitted after having a heart attack at age 25 in 2015.

The Oldham Times: Carl was a beloved son, brother, nephew and uncleCarl was a beloved son, brother, nephew and uncle (Image: Dionne Flynn)

"Sadly, after having his donor heart for three years and fighting so hard, he passed away on February 28, 2024, in Wythenshawe Hospital after being cared for by the amazing team on the Jim Quick Ward, who the family would like to thank for all the years of care for Carl.

"Carl was the most thoughtful person you could meet, [he] would do anything for anyone.

"He would randomly bring bunches of flowers for his mum, would go on random drives for days out with his auntie Dionne, and fish shop trips with his cousin Daniel and brother Howard."

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Carl's brother Howard described his brother as "the best big brother, the most supportive and happy person".

Ms Flynn said Carl died just days after his first nephew was born, but he got to meet him over FaceTime, which she said is a memory Carl's brother and family will "forever cherish".

The Oldham Times: Carl received a heart transplant during the Covid pandemicCarl received a heart transplant during the Covid pandemic (Image: Dionne Flynn)

She added: "No words can describe how thankful Carl's family are to the donor family for the extra three years they got with Carl.

"He will forever be missed by everyone who knew him, such a fighter, happy, loving, caring person.

"Carl's heart stopped and our hearts broke that day."