A FAMILY as paid tribute to a stabbing victim - and said he was fiercely loyal and "always had a smile or joke."

The statement was issued by the family of Steven Taylor as around 100 people gathered for his funeral in Darwen yesterday.

Steven, 29, was fatally injured during a party at his house in Primrose Terrace, Darwen, at around 4am on August 18.

His funeral took place at St Peter's Church, Church Terrace, Darwen, prior to burial at Darwen eastern cemetery.

The family statement said: "His family and friends were the most important things in his life and he was fiercely loyal. He would have done anything for those he cared about. He was fond of children and it is sad he will never be able to have a family of his own.

"He was never miserable and always had a smile or joke when anyone needed cheering up.

"Steven always lived his life to the full, living day to day rather than worrying about tomorrow. He took each day as it came, making sure he enjoyed every minute of his life.

"He was particularly interested in keeping fit and spent a lot of time in the gym, working on his muscles, which he was especially proud of."

A white teddy bear sat on top of Steven's coffin when it arrived at church.

And his best friend Keith McDonald stood to give a tribute.

He said: "I never thought I'd be doing this today.

"There was never a dull day with him. His laugh went on for ever.

"Many a time I went out on nights with him that Steven would call buzzin'.

"He was not afraid to speak his piece.

"I was never as good as you mate, we will be reunited."

Locked Up by Akon, one of Steven's favourite songs, was played after Keith's tribute, including the line trying to find a motive' Don McLean's American Pie was played at the end of the service.

Steven leaves behind his mother, Pat, and his siblings Harry, Paul, Tricia, Joanna and Andrew.

Two men have been charged with murder following Steven's death.