The family and friends of a popular and kind-hearted young man who died in a tragic snowboarding accident have described him as ‘a genuine and radiant person’.

Daniel Marsh, from Bridport, died following a fall during heavy snow in Meribel in the French Alps, his family has announced.

The 23-year-old had been working in the popular ski resort in France since early December along with girlfriend, Chantal Blackledge, also from Bridport.

A former Colfox school student, Daniel enjoyed sailing at the Olympic site on Portland.

Like many young people, Daniel was working for the winter ski season, spending his evenings working as a night porter and snowboarding during the day.

He had spent the past four years working at the Anchor pub in Seatown, saving to finance his trip.

Daniel’s family; mum Diana, brother Tom and uncle Nick, travelled to Meribel to collect his belongings and make arrangements to bring him home.

They were greeted by the many friends and resort co-workers that Daniel had made during his time there. Diana says Daniel followed his dreams.

“As a boy he loved skateboarding, then sailing and parkour, but snowboarding had become his big passion for the past five years,” she said.

“He was having such a fantastic time. He was known as ‘King of the Tarentaise’ by his snowboarding colleagues at the Meribel resort."

Daniel was well-respected by those he worked with. Jordan Valentin, manager of the resort, said: “There are some in life who have an everlasting impact; Dan is exactly that type. His kind heart made its way in to everyone he met. I would like to express the joys and memories that all of us at Tarentaise share, in loving memory of Dan.

“There is not a single person who could deny that Dan was the most radiant and genuine person. He knew everyone and would do everything with a smile.

“Through day and night, overcast and bluebird skies, you could guarantee Dan was having a great time. Joking, laughing, smiling and living every single day.”

Daniel’s family is now together and making preparations for a celebration of his life, which they hope to share with close friends.

Details are yet to be confirmed, but they would like to thank everyone for their well wishes and support.