THE son of Carrs Pasties chairman John Carr has paid tribute to his father who died last week at the age of 74.

The iconic Bolton-based firm confirmed that Mr Carr had passed away last Thursday after a short illness.

The news was greeted by a wave of tributes and condolences from civic leaders, businesspeople and members of the community.

His son Joseph Carr, who is the managing director at the family pastry business, has described the response as ‘overwhelming’.

He added: “The comments that have come in are just overwhelming and humbling.

“Considering how understated my dad was, the amount of praise for his life has been wonderful. We are so proud of him.

“I do not know where I would be in my head if it was not for all these comments. It has really helped.

“He was honest, humble and generous. He would be a little bit embarrassed by all of this. He was not one to cause a fuss.”

Born and bred in the town, Mr Carr Snr left school and started work in Manchester fixing adding machines.

He eventually quit his job to move into the family business, which he and his siblings became the third-generation of Carrs to run.

The firm now has four stores across Bolton and is also well known for its support of charity work, as well as being proud sponsors of the Bolton Wanderers Football Club family stand.

Paying tribute to his dad, Mr Carr Jnr said: “He was affable and everyone loved him. He has never said a bad word to anyone. I cannot remember one bad memory of him.

“He was so generous, not just with his money but also his time. He could not say no to anyone.

“He put his life and soul into the firm and everything around him. Those who met him once felt like they had a proper relationship with him.

“It was his passion that drove Carrs. The ingredients were more important than what the brand looked like. That has always been the case with my dad.

“He understood that keeping things simple and keeping the quality high was what people wanted.

“He is going to be very much missed.”

Mr Carr’s funeral will be held at Bolton Parish Church next Thursday, starting at 1.45pm. All members of the public are welcome to attend and pay their respects.

Donations in his memory can be made to Bolton Hospice at https://tinyurl.com/y7syp3vk.