WELL-known Bolton businessman Ken Brabbin — who could often be found working on the shop floor — has died at the age of 85.

Mr Brabbin's grandfather, Herbert, started the well-known tools and industrial supplies company, Brabbin & Rudd, in 1845; Ken Brabbin worked for the company from 1955.

"He was a very grounded person, very down-to-earth and hardworking, and very proud of both the company and of his own humble beginnings," said his daughter, Mrs Karen Bradshaw.

Mr Brabbin attended Gaskell Street and Whitecroft Road schools before going to Bolton Technical College. He became an apprentice joiner in the building trade with the G J Seddon Group at Jackson's, Edgefold, before completing two years of National Service in the Middle East with the 1st Bolton The Loyal Regiment.

He returned to the position of foreman joiner until the sudden death of his father, Stanley Brabbin, in 1955, leaving only Ken to carry on the name of the family business. Ken was, however, suitably equipped for the challenge and worked tirelessly with the firm until his retirement at the age of 65. During this time, he continued to develop the family business.

Brabbin & Rudd began life as Staffords High Class Tools and Cutlery in Knowsley Street before moving to Derby Street where the partnership between Herbert Brabbin and Herbert Rudd was conceived.

Under Ken's direction, following the twists and turns of business in the post-World War Two era, Brabbin & Rudd became a limited company and embarked on a well-considered expansion programme devised by Ken. The 105 Derby Street premises in Bolton soon became 105-109 Derby Street. In 1971 the Leigh Street branch opened in Wigan and in 1990 the Bolton business relocated to its current warehouse in Walker Street.

As managing director, Ken adopted a hands-on approach, driving the business forward and yet never foregoing the principles of hard graft, good craftsmanship and fairness on which he had been brought up. He rarely sought the limelight and worked alongside employees. Before Ken's retirement, sons Andy and Pete joined the firm continuing the family tradition, their IT skills complementing Ken's traditional skills and experience to together take the company forward into a new era.

Ken leaves a daughter, Karen, sons Andy and Pete and seven grandchildren. His funeral was held on Thursday at Overdale West Chapel.