Michael Locke, popularly known as Pancho, a star of MTV’s stunt and prank television series, Dirty Sanchez, has died at the age of 47.
Locke, who hailed from Port Talbot, Wales, gained prominence through the cult television show, which aired between 2003 and 2007.
He later became a co-owner of the Welsh streetwear brand San Portablo.
Tributes have continued to pour in following his death, with his former co-stars and business associates remembering him for his personality, humour and impact on their lives.
His Dirty Sanchez co-star, Mathew Pritchard, described Locke as “the best” and said he would “never forget him”.
In a video message, Pritchard, who is currently climbing Mount Everest in the Himalayas, said he would dedicate his journey to the show’s late star as he proceeds to the mountain’s base camp.
“I’m still a little bit in shock,” he said.
“My little friend of more than 35 years has left the building.
“We’ve had some amazing laughs together over the years. I’ve known him since he was about 14 years old.
“Of course the Sanchez years, travelled all over the world with him, been in some classic messes with him in the past partying. Now he’s gone but I’ll never forget him.”
Another co-star, Lee Dainton, also expressed sadness over Locke’s death, recalling their shared experiences while growing up together as skateboarders.
“When you grow up skating with your friends you’re in your own little world.
“You never think about losing anyone from it. In your head those days and the people you shared them with live forever.
“Since hearing the news all those memories have been flooding back.
“I can see Panch, hear the laughter and remember all the best times like it was yesterday. Then it hits me that he’s gone and I still can’t believe it.”
The clothing brand San Portablo, which Locke co-owned, also paid tribute to him, describing him as an “absolute Welsh treasure”.
In a statement, the company said, “An absolute Welsh treasure and San Portablo King.
“His brilliance we are sure will still shine through far wide high low and across the seven seas.
“He lived an incredible life and lit up the world with his charm.
“Rest in peace brother, your legend will never cease. It will only gain momentum.”
Dirty Sanchez featured Locke alongside Pritchard, Dainton and Dan Joyce.
The programme, which began in Newport, Wales, became popular internationally, airing in 64 countries and attracting more than 400 million viewers.
The series, regarded as the British equivalent of the American stunt film franchise Jackass, followed the group as they travelled around the world performing outrageous and often dangerous stunts.
Following his television career, Locke became involved in the fashion business through San Portablo, a streetwear brand established in Port Talbot in 2016 by former Tata Steel worker Nigel Hunt.
Locke returned to Port Talbot in 2018 and helped manage the brand and its retail outlet at Aberafan Shopping Centre.
Hunt, his business partner, described him as “a tonic” and “a good man”, adding that he would be greatly missed.
“He had an incredible life, his presence was immense. He lit up rooms for 47 years and he will be really missed,” he said.
“He was just himself, humble to the end, loved his family.”
Flowers have reportedly been placed outside the San Portablo shop following the news of his death.
