A MAN, who started a small firm selling petrol and built it up into a thriving garage business, has died at the age of 69.

After launching the venture 31 years ago at Mickleton near Barnard Castle, Ian Hutchinson continued working as a mechanical excavator driver, while his wife Marion served fuel from two pumps.

Over the years, their children, David, Alistair and Karen, became full-time working partners in the business, which grew to include a service workshop and a car sales showroom.

Mr Hutchinson was a member of Mickleton Parish Council for many years and served as chairman for a time.

He stood down from the council this year because of ill health, but his wife took his place and gave him full reports about every meeting.

Mr Hutchinson's son, David, said yesterday: "He will be greatly missed by everyone as he was always so good natured. He loved nothing better than a chat about local events, but he never said an ill word about anyone."

Cremation will take place at Darlington on Friday, followed by a memorial service at 1pm at Romaldkirk Parish Church.

Donations in lieu of flowers are being invited for the Friends of Richardson Hospital and church funds.