FRIENDS of Simon Daniels, the Winsford paddleboarder who died at Dovestone Reservoir, are planning a 'Simon-style' celebration of his upcoming 30th birthday. 

Billed as Simmy’s 30th - A Night to Remember, organisers promise a ‘vibrant night of music, love, and remembrance as we celebrate a true legend on his birthday’.

The party, at Oaklands Hotel in Weaverham, kicks off at midday on Saturday, November 23, and runs until 2am.   

Organiser and Simon's friend, Drew Southern, said the event will feature performances by well-known DJs and live acts, including some of Simon’s close friends.

All proceeds will go towards memorials for Simon, local charities, and a foundation in his name to preventing future tragedies in inland open water.

Drew said: “Our friend Simon’s tragic passing recently is a loss which has deeply affected both the Winsford and Northwich communities.

Simon was a popular personal trainer with a passion for fitnessSimon was a popular personal trainer with a passion for fitness (Image: Newsquest) “We’ll be honouring our friend and celebrating his 30th birthday in true Simon style.

“Simon was such a beloved figure, known for his passion for music and events. He was no stranger to a rave, and no stranger to the people.

“All proceeds will go towards memorials for Simon, local charities, and a foundation in his name aimed at preventing future tragedies in inland open water.

“Wear your brightest attire and bring your best energy as we honour a life which touched us all.”

Simon, 29, died after he entered the water falling from an inflatable paddleboard at Dovestone Reservoir at around 2.30pm on Sunday, October 20.

A woman who was with him was rescued and taken to hospital where she was treated for shock and hypothermia.

However, rescuers failed to locate Simon, and it wasn’t until 6.15pm the following Wednesday when his body was recovered by a specialist police underwater search team.

A GoFundMe page set up in Simon’s memory by some of his friends, including Winsford X-Factor contestant, Sophie Bond, has raised more than £21,000.

On the page, Sophie wrote: “Simon was a friend to everyone. Nobody was a stranger in his eyes.

“Funny doesn’t cut it. He was hilarious. He had this power to bring everyone together. He just wanted everyone to be friends and avoided drama.

“Trust me. If you knew our boy, you would instantly have fallen in love with him.”

Tickets for Simmy’s 30th cost £22.25 including book fee on ticket website, Skiddle.