A GRIEVING family today paid tribute to a well-known former Ipswich motor trader who died suddenly.

A GRIEVING family today paid tribute to a well-known former Ipswich motor trader who died suddenly.

Brian Markin's loved ones are preparing to pay their final respects at his funeral next week following his death on January 3, at the age of 76.

Mr Markin, who was born in Ipswich and remained in the town his whole life, will be remembered by most as co-founding Davey Bros and Co in Bramford Road in 1959, together with Peter and Brian Davey.

As a youngster, he attended Copleston Road Secondary Modern School and then completed an apprenticeship as a coach builder, before working for Botwoods, a large motor dealer, where he repaired damaged vehicles as a panel beater.

He also worked as a car and motorcycle salesman with AJ Howe Motors Ltd prior to setting up his own business with the Davey Brothers.

In 1961 they transferred the business to Alan Road and became sole distributors for the first Honda Motorcycles to be imported to the UK. The firm was also the first Honda car dealer to sell the technically advanced S800 sports car.

The firm then found a bigger site in Foxhall Road and opened the Golf Garage, which is now Lings Honda site, in 1964 to cope with their expanding business.

Mr Markin left the motor trade in the early 80s and spent the next 12 years working at the Port of Felixstowe as a dock worker on the rail section. He retired in 1994 and enjoyed various hobbies including snooker and caravan holidays.

The grandfather-of-six was a keen golfer and, as a member of the Rushmere and Purdis Heath golf clubs, enjoyed socialising with fellow players.

His son, Ian, 40, of Larchcroft Road, said: “In his latter years Brian enjoyed nothing more than getting away for a camping holiday in his beloved caravan with family and friends.

“He was well liked by everyone and will be sorely missed. He was one of life's characters.”

As well as his son and two daughters, Lesley and Karen, he also leaves behind his sister Opal, his son-in-law Grantley, daughter-in-law Giosina, and grandsons Ashley, Luke, Roberto, Jordan, Ryan and Ricardo.

The funeral will take place in the North Chapel at Ipswich Crematorium at 10.45am on Wednesday, January 21.

Everyone who knew him is welcome to attend, although there will only be family flowers. Mourners are invited to make any donations to the British Heart Foundation.

Pay your tribute to Brian Markin - write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN, or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk.