A TRAVEL agent and popular Blackburn businessman has died at the age of 55.
The family of Tariq Mehmood, who ran Top Choice Travel on Whalley Range, paid a heartfelt tribute to him.

Mr Mehmood lived on Troy Street and performed his prayers at the nearby Masjid Anisul Islam and Madina Masjid on Oak Street. He died on Monday from Covid-19.

His son Lukman said: “It is sad time for the family but we are comforted in the fact that he left such wonderful memories with all that knew him.”

Born in 1965 in Pakistan he came to the country in 1984 and worked at the India Mill until it closed in 1990 and then he went to be employed at Malik Travel Service. In 1999 he set up on his own business as Top Choice Travel.

As well as arranging travel documents, Mr Mehmood was one of the first points of call to assist with the repatriation of the recently deceased to Pakistan. He will be remembered by families from across the region for his efforts in ensuring the journey ran smoothly.

Lukman said: “We have had hundreds of calls and thousands of texts from people from across the country. He had many business associates and had links with the whole town. People are remembering him with such good words and it is so wonderful to hear what he meant to them.

“I have had grown men ringing me and crying on the phone as they recollect knowing him. He was in a lot of people’s hearts.”

His brother-in-law, former councillor Sajid Ali said: “Tariq had such a wonderful effect on others throughout his life. He was proper gentleman and never spoke out of character. He always helped others whenever he could. 

“We would urge people to call or text their condolences and please do not visit the house at this time. We realise that it is a difficult time for everyone but we must adhere to the regulations for the betterment of the community.”

Lukman added: “He only went into hospital on Thursday and died within four days. The nurses and doctors at the hospital have been so good and we would like thank them for their efforts. 

“The hospital Muslim imam was a great comfort for us all at this difficult time too. Thank you also to the burial service and everything went as smooth as possible.”

Tariq Mehmood leaves a wife, three sons, a daughter and eight grandchildren.