CHARITY and business leaders last night paid tribute to the general manager of the region's largest shopping centre after he died suddenly.

Metrocentre boss Tim Lamb, 50, suffered a heart attack while playing five-a-side football on Tuesday evening.

He was taken to Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary where he died later.

Last night, a Metrocentre spokesperson confirmed the circumstances of Mr Lamb’s death, and told of the love and respect there was for him.

“We are deeply saddened to have to announce that Tim Lamb, general manager at Metrocentre died suddenly of a heart attack whilst playing football,” the spokesperson said.

“Tim was well loved and respected by everyone who knew him and he will be sorely missed.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with his wife and family at this tragic time.”

Mr Lamb lived in Whitley Bay, North Tyneside, with his wife Philippa and children Jake, 17, and Alice, 14.

Born in Kenton, Newcastle, he worked for high-profile companies including Danone, Rentokil, Porsche and Healthcall before joining the Capital Shopping Centres (CSC) group in 2005 as operations manager for Eldon Square shopping centre in Newcastle city centre.

He was promoted swiftly to general manager, leading the mall through a £170m expansion project.

He moved to the Metrocentre, which is also owned by CSC, in 2010.