HUNDREDS of people gathered to pay their last respects to the chairman of Carr’s Pasties, John ‘Jud’ Carr, yesterday.

The boss of the iconic Bolton-based business died earlier this month aged 74 after a short illness.

A funeral cortege, led by a Carr’s Pasties van, arrived at Bolton parish Church which was filled by guests and members of the public from across the community.

During the service three eulogies were offered by Mr Carr’s sons Matthew, Liam and Joseph.

His sons described Mr Carr as a man who “lived his life treating everyone he met like a member of his family”, and who would have always make time for anyone.

They added: "His love for his family was constant and unwavering, He worked hard to support us all but he always found time for fun."

"Dad would have been and so overwhelmed seeing everyone paying their respects and he would have even been a bit surprised."

A homily was also read by Father Ged alongside poetry, gospel readings, hymns and a reflective rendition of the Phil Coulter song The Town I Loved So Well.

A lifelong member of Bolton’s religious community, and a friend to people of all faiths, Mr Carr was also remembered by Chan Parmar of Bolton Interfaith Council.

Mr Parmar paid tribute to Mr Carr’s numerous contributions to supporting the faith community and fundraising for causes including the victims of the 2015 Nepal earthquake, when Mr Carr helped to raise more than £2,400 in four hours.

Mr Parmar said: "John was one who cared and contributed to many causes, and I was fortunate to know him.

"He was a kind man who had a sense of humour, was easy going and hard working. You felt comfortable talking to him and he was always willing to help others.

“For me and many others he was a model of humanity. He will be missed very much and fondly remembered.”

After the service the funeral cortege made its way through Bolton before going to a private committal.

Born and raised in Bolton, Mr Carr began his working life making adding machines for a company in Ancoats, Manchester, where he was nicknamed Jud.

A father and grandfather, Mr Carr was a lover of Buddy Holly, Manchester United and travelling in Ireland, Italy, France, Japan and Canada.

He later returned to the town to take over the family business, becoming, alongside his brothers, the third generation to run the Carr’s firm.

Carr's Pasties opened their first shop in 1938 enjoying great success which led them to build their own factory in 1975.

Under Mr Carr's management the business has expanded to run four stores, as well as to become sponsors to Bolton Wanderers, and treasures a strong connection with charity work.