Tributes have been paid to Timothy Richards, the owner of Gawsworth Hall, who has died peacefully at home aged 75.

Mr Richards was a respected member of the community and was heavily involved in the church and parish council.

He was married to Elizabeth for 44 years and had two sons, Rupert and Jonathan, who will continue to run the family business.

Their family home, a 15th century Tudor hall, which includes a popular outdoor auditorium, hosts a series of events and concerts, including weddings and car shows.

A special memorial service in tribute to Mr Richards is planned for July.

Mr Richards was patron of St James Gawsworth, past provincial grand master for the Masonic Province of Cheshire, and parish councillor for more than 40 years.

He died at home on November 28 after a long battle with cancer.

Paying tribute, Bishop William Pwaisiho of St James’ Church, described him as a ‘patron, friend and parishioner’. He said: “We are deeply saddened by the news of Tim passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with Elizabeth, Rupert and Jonathan at this very sad time.

“When a person departs from this earth they never truly leave, for they are still alive in our hearts and minds, through us, they live on. Over the years Tim has done a great deal for the church, assisting us in our fund raising during the Bank Holidays and at Christmas by sending his many visitors to the church.

“No one can prepare you for a loss; it comes like a swift wind. However, take comfort in knowing that Tim is now resting in the arms of our Lord.”

Mr Richards had served on Gawsworth Parish Council since 1976.

A tribute posted on the council’s Facebook page said: “It is with deep sadness that we have learned Coun Timothy Richards has passed away.

“He was a stalwart of the Parish Council having served as a councillor since 1976. He will be sorely missed.”

The hall’s open-air theatre will be run between the June 30 and August 13 next year, with a memorial service held in the auditorium at Gawsworth on the July 11.

Gawsworth Hall is open until Thursday, December 15, with the annual floral display with designer, Craig Bullock’s Yuletide.