CHAIRMAN of Carrs Pasties, John Carr, has died.

The family pastry business confirmed this evening that Mr Carr passed away yesterday after a short illness.

The family issued a statement this evening: "We are sorry to be the bearers of bad news. John Carr sadly passed away on 7th June 2018 after a short illness.

"We would like to thank everyone for their kind messages of support - an unbelievable tribute to the legacy he has left behind.

"A legacy filled with his humour, honesty, integrity, humility, generosity, hard work and pride. He truly was Bolton's finest."

Carrs Pasties moved to its purpose-built factory in Manchester Road, Bolton, in 1975, where it has a production facility and a shop, as well as two other outlets in Bolton.

John Carr and his siblings were the third-generation of Carrs to run the family business and John was regarded with affection and respect by the local community.

Hundreds of people have paid tribute to Mr Carr on the business's social media pages.

Customers, friends and former staff of Carrs Pasties described Mr Carr, affectionately referred to as Jud, as a "true gentleman" and "the best of Bolton".

Gareth Riley said: "Such sad news. John was a true gentleman and always friendly. Condolences to the Carr family. John has made something exceptional in Carrs Pasties that will live on forever."

Joanne Crompton, a trader at Bolton Market, said: "We knew John for many years since childhood and you would not meet a kinder man. He will be sorely missed by the people who knew him and the Bolton community as a whole. Rest in peace Jud xx."

Lorrayne Saunderson said: "John was a true gentleman with a heart of gold. So very sorry to hear this and my thoughts and love go out to Moira, Matt, Joe & Liam, plus all of the extended Carr family & staff. A real gem."

Mark Dougill remembered Mr Carr for his good humour and generous spirit.

He said: "Sad, sad news, a nicer person you will never meet. A wonderful, generous, funny guy, great company to be around. Condolences to the family RIP Judd #LEGEND."

Julian Gilbert said: "A tremendous man - very upset. He was a great wise Boltonian and an even better person to spend time with - so sad."

Phil Ashcroft paid tribute to Mr Carr's support for local charities and businesses.

He said: "John was such a lovely gentleman and will be sadly missed. He was such a great supporter of local organisations and events. His respect for Bolton Hospice was immense. At BoltonFM, we always loved his and Joe’s visits, as they always arrived with warm and tasty gifts!!"