HUNDREDS of friends and former colleagues gathered in a Durham Church this week to pay tribute to one of the region's most prominent businessmen who died suddenly aged 58.

Ian McIntyre had built J and G Archibalds into one of the largest independent builders' merchants in the North-East.He was also a director of one of the region's best-known hotel chains, Ramside Estates, which includes the flagship Ramside Hall Hotel.After attending the Choristers School and Durham School, he went to work with his late father, Alderman Gordon McIntyre, who twice served as Mayor of Durham and chaired the city council's planning committee for more than 20 years.

Together they expanded the Archibald group of stores from a shop in North Road, Durham, and depots at Gilesgate and Dragonville. Mr McIntyre's mother, Peggy, also played an important role in the company.

It was Mr McIntyre who was the inspiration behind his father's acquisition of Ramside Hall, in partnership with builder Dick Coleman, in the early Sixties.With his wife Nancy, a former lecturer in education, he was a supporter of many North-East charities.

He was a former chairman of the County Durham Cheshire Homes, a committee member of the Durham 100 Club and a trustee of the Shakespeare Trust.The couple have a daughter, Philippa, who is a lawyer with a London practice.Mr McIntyre's death follows that of his cousin Angus McIntyre, 55, who lost a brave battle against illness in December.Tributes from all over the world have spoken of his generosity, kindness and sense of humour.Tony Robson, of soft drinks company Waters and Robson, said:

Ian was someone who his friends looked forward to seeing, had fun chatting to, enjoyed being with, and who had the capacity to light up the lives of everyone he came into contact with.

It was all accomplished in his own seemingly effortless, understated and charming way. He was a lovely man and a wonderful friend.''Former Mayor of Durham Colin Beswick said:

Ian was unique in his niceness. Life in Durham will not be the same without him.''The funeral service was held at St Cuthbert's Church in Durham.