TRIBUTES have flooded in to a beloved family man and businessman who lost his battle with cancer.

Ray Large, who founded A&R Motors, on Kings Close, Canvey, in the early 70s, passed away last Wednesday, aged 71, after first being diagnosed six years ago.

Well-wishers have now paid tribute to Ray, while his family have spoken of their pride with Ray known for his fundraising efforts.

He raised more than £10,000 for Macmillan cancer charities over the years, while working with Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes charity members on Canvey.

Wayne Large, Ray’s son, also from Canvey, said: “He was really well respected and loved among the community. He moved to Canvey in 1971, and started the business not too long after he arrived.

“We were all behind and proud of him when he was doing his fundraising.

“He had quite a big presence on social media, and was always there for people who were struggling. He was always up for a chat with anyone.

“He would have helped anyone if he had the chance.

“He was a really keen fisherman, and had a boat which he used off the island. He fished for many years.

Ray’s garage, on the Charfleets Industrial Estate, is a family-run business with Wayne now at the helm.

Wayne explained how the business has expanded ever since it opened. 

He added: “It was just him at the start, and it’s come a long way since.

“He’s had the business for almost 50 years now.

“The garage sponsored a defibrillator to be installed at the industrial estate, and there’s now a plaque where it is in honour of him.

“He got the business to where it is today.”

Staff at the garage also paid tribute to Ray, who will be “sorely missed”. 

A spokesman for A&R Motors, said: “It is with great sadness that we have to announce the passing of our founder, boss, friend and mentor Ray.

“He fought long and hard and still went out in the early hours of Wednesday mornings.

“It’s business here as normal just as Ray would have wanted just with our heads a little lower.

“He will be truly missed by all who knew him.”

Ray leaves behind four children, and six grandchildren.

One of the tributes on the garage’s Facebook page, reads: “Ray was one of those rare gentlemen, he was kind, sincere and above all, genuine. 

“He also had a fabulous sense of humour. I feel very privileged as it was a pleasure to have met Ray and the A and R team.”