Businessman Hugh Ladds was a gentleman who devoted most of his life to Northamptonshire's shoe industry. Mr Ladds, 71, of Adnitt Road, Rushden, died on Tuesday, March 26.

Born in Rushden, he spent his life working and living around the town. After growing up at the family home in Higham Road, Mr Ladds moved to The Square, Higham Ferrers, before returning to Adnitt Road, Rushden, where he lived for 19 years prior to his death.

Following national service in the Army, which took him to Berlin, he returned to Rushden and joined his family's shoe manufacturing firm - B Ladds in Moor Road, where he served as managing director for many years.

Founded by his grandfather in 1891 the business eventually closed in the 1970s. Mr Ladds then pursued his interest in restoring antique furniture and became an expert in cane and rush work.

A former employee at the shoe firm, Jose Norman, said: "He was devoted to his work and staff. Nothing stood in the way of his endeavours to continue the business."

Daughter Victoria Barrett, 47, said: "In his spare time he indulged his passion for motor racing, driving with some success at Silverstone, Brands Hatch and Brooklands.

"He won the MG Silverstone trophy and the EC MG Barnard trophy in 1955. He was a retiring and private man. A traditional English gentleman."

Mr Ladds leaves daughters, Victoria and Emma Cox, 40. His son Charles died four years ago aged 34.

His funeral took place on Friday.