A FOUNDER of one of Darlington's biggest taxi companies has lost his fight against cancer.

Shaun Bainbridge, who helped set up 1AB Taxis in 1984, died on Friday, aged 47. He fought the disease for six months, and passed away in Germany where he was being treated.

His parents, John and Joan, and his wife Beth - who he married last September - were at his bedside.

The 1AB company office in North Road, Darlington - where Mr Bainbridge was a director - will close tomorrow afternoon while a memorial service is held.

Last night, tributes were paid to "brave, warm" Mr Bainbridge, who worked in the Darlington taxi trade for more than 25 years.

Ann Barnes, secretary at 1AB Taxis, said he was very popular in the town, and would be missed by his colleagues at the company.

"We were very fond of him, and he put up such a courageous fight against cancer. He was a very, very brave man, and we are all devastated that he has gone," she said.

"I will remember him as a courageous, brave young man, who unfortunately didn't win his battle. He will be very, very sorely missed."

The service will be held tomorrow in St Augustine's Church in Darlington, at 2pm.