LINE dance promoter and DJ Ray O'Dowd, has lost his fight against cancer at the age of 45.

Ray, known professionally as Jukebox Junkie, died in the early hours of last Monday, in Burnley General Hospital. His wife, professional entertainer Sandra Lynton, and daughters Rebecca and Lucinda, were at his bedside.

Blackburn-born Ray spent many years on the family farm in Cliviger with his brothers, Jim and Dennis, and sister, Linda.

He spent most of his working life in Blackburn, as service manager for Thomas Fox and Sons, later known as JDS Trucks.

Ray was fascinated by computers and two years ago gained an Honours degree in computer engineering. He also loved classic cars and set up his own company restoring them.

He always accompanied his wife as sound engineer in her cabaret work.

Five years ago they set up Burnley-based SL Promotions, specialising in line dancing events across the North West. A spokesman for the company said: "Ray was hugely popular with the dancers and had a great sense of humour.

"He leaves behind a legacy of fond memories to his family and friends, who are devastated that his life has been cut short so tragically."

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