DEVOTED family man, respected engineer and community stalwart Ray Hargreaves is to be laid to rest next week after dying suddenly at the age of 79.

Mr Hargreaves, of Clayton-le-Moors, was best known as a skilled and dedicated plastics engineer at TML Accrington where, in a career spanning over 30 years, he was highly admired for his professionalism and friendly relations with colleagues, who could always rely on him for help and guidance.

However, caring for his extensive family was Mr Hargreaves greatest joy in life.

He leaves behind his wife Barbara, children Steven, David, Karen, Nigel and Keith, stepchildren Andrea and Warren, and brother Terry.

In later years Mr Hargreaves was blessed with both grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and one of his greatest pleasures was gathering the family together for celebrations.

These celebrations were always special occasions, with friends describing Mr Hargreaves as the life and soul of any party, who could ‘talk to anyone about anything.’ His grandchildren Jordan, Becky, Rachel, Samantha, Leighton, Danielle, Carly, Tamzin, Oliver, Henry, Blue and Tiziano, and great-grandchildren Olivia, Maisie, Alfie, Alice, Bradly, Lottie, Sophie, Lewis, Grayson, Evie, Leo-David, Gracie-Mae, Mitchel, Charlie, Honey and Hollie-Blossom will all carry the very fondest of memories of the dedicated family man for the rest of their lives.

In the wider community, Mr Hargreaves was well known as an avid golfer, having been a member of Accrington Golf Club, and fisherman.

His golfing and fishing trips, often with Barbara by his side, took Mr Hargreaves all over the UK, while the couple also developed a love of travel abroad enjoying many adventures together and always bringing stories of their travels home to the youngsters.

The family are accepting donations to the British Heart Foundation in his memory.

To donate visit: https://www.memorygiving.com/ramonrayhargreaves.