THE well-known former owner of a 98-year-old family cash and carry business in Bolton has died at the age of 65 after a short illness.

Malcolm Howcroft ran the Hutchinson and Howcroft from its base in Newenham Street, Astley Bridge, until he opted to close the business when he retired in 2015.

The company supplied many local shops and cafes with sweets, confectionery, drinks and tobacco over the years.

Mr Howcoft, a former pupil of Smithills Grammar School, was a lifelong resident of Harpers Lane.

He leaves a wife, Geraldine, his son John aged 27, and soon to be daughter in law Emma.

Emma told The Bolton News: “Malcolm was a very sociable man, well-known across the local business community. He will be greatly missed.”

A funeral service takes place at St Peter’s Church, Church Road, Smithills on Thursday, October 25, at 10.30am, followed by a short service at Overdale Crematorium West Chapel.