A memorial service is being held today in honour of Ipswich entrepreneur and radio celebrity Bob Shelley who died last month at the age of 78.

Ipswich Star: Stephen Foster, BBC Radio Suffolk, Nikki Brown, EACH Fundraiser, Bob Shelley, BBC, and Jane Mower, poet Picture: EACHStephen Foster, BBC Radio Suffolk, Nikki Brown, EACH Fundraiser, Bob Shelley, BBC, and Jane Mower, poet Picture: EACH (Image: Archant)

Mr Shelley was best known for his infectious laugh and big heart - as well as raising thousands for local good causes.

From humble beginnings, Mr Shelley built a business empire in Ipswich, running cafe’s taxi ranks in the town as well as the Arcade Boxing Club.

He later became a presenter on BBC Radio Suffolk, joining the team on its Sports Round Table and later co-hosting the Happy Hour show with Stephen Foster.

A few famous faces are expected to attend today’s service, which takes place at St Mary’s Catholic Church at 12pm.

His daughter Petra described her father as ‘the man of Ipswich’.

“He was very kind and very generous,” she said.

“If he could help you he would, and if he couldn’t he would find someone that could.

“Everyone went to Dad for answers and for help and he always would.

Ipswich Star: Bob Shelley and Mayor Doreen Savage at the Mannings Amusements Park for Children in Need Picture: GREGG BROWNBob Shelley and Mayor Doreen Savage at the Mannings Amusements Park for Children in Need Picture: GREGG BROWN

“He was my best friend and my hero.

“He was a bundle of laughs, he always saw the good in people.”

Ipswich Star: Bob Shelley in Taxi Picture: SHELLEY FAMILYBob Shelley in Taxi Picture: SHELLEY FAMILY (Image: Archant)