THE family of a Plymouth man who died following an NHS infected blood scandal have paid heartfelt tribute to a "wonderful husband and super dad" at his funeral.

Seventy-year-old Ron Venton died on October 19 of liver cancer directly linked to the hepatitis he contracted through contaminated blood.

He was among almost 5,000 haemophiliacs given hepatitis C through plasma imported from the USA in the 1970s and 1980s.

The Devonport father of one had long campaigned for fairer compensation for victims of the disaster and their families.

Close family and friends attended a moving funeral service at Nazareth House in Stonehouse yesterday morning.

Ron's widow Irena Venton, aged 64, said he lives on in her heart and mind.

She said: "My dearest Ron, I know you are in a far better place now surrounded by God's love, no more pain prejudices and injustices.

"I miss you as my best friend, wonderful husband and super dad to Adam.

"I thank you for our life together. God bless, I love you."

Ron's only child Adam, aged 24, described his father as a life-long "fighter" whose courage is his inspiration.

He said: "Dad, words cannot express how much I miss you but I know your aren't far away.

"I feel so lucky and proud to call you my dad."

Born in Plymouth in 1940, Ron suffered from haemophilia which impairs the body's ability to control blood clotting.

He met Irena in London 28 years ago and they married three years later. He was an accountant, although he later had to abandon his practice due to insurance problems over his health.

Ron was diagnosed with hepatitis C in 1992, which he believed was from contaminated blood he received in the 1980s. It lead to major liver problems and, eventually, liver cancer.

From 2000 Ron's fight for justice saw him lobbying former Prime Minister Tony Blair and MPs, visiting Parliament and backing national campaigns for a public inquiry into the blunder and 'realistic' compensation for those whose lives were ruined.

Campaigners continue to fight, as compensation and increased benefits for victims are still being debated by politicians.

Health ministers this month announced another review of the issue, which is due to be completed by Christmas.

Following the funeral service, Ron's body was interred at Efford Cemetery.