TRIBUTE has been paid following the sudden death – aged 55 – of a popular Keighley businessman.

Ali Akbar Shan, the son of a shopkeeper, rose from humble beginnings to establish a number of successful businesses.

And he supported many causes, across the town and beyond.

"Ali's sudden passing from a heart attack is a huge loss for the town ­– we have lost one of our great residents who never forgot his roots and invested in his community," said close family friend, Naveer Towasin.

"He was a true gentleman.

"His life was an example of how you can harmoniously blend personal ambition with philanthropic outreach and for that he’ll always be remembered.

"To achieve these things one must have love for people. In a world that seems to be filled with pessimism, Ali was a breath of fresh air and truly uplifting through his work.

"From coming to a new country as a young boy, his life was an example of what drive and ambition can achieve."

Ali established Yorkshire Halal Meat Suppliers and was a regular buyer at Skipton Auction Mart and other marts across the north, which have been raising funds for the British Heart Foundation in his memory.

More than £56,000 has been coined-in so far.

Chris Dodds, executive secretary of the Livestock Auctioneers Association, said: "The response to Ali's death and the huge amount of money being raised in his memory is testament to just how highly he and his family were respected."

In 2006, Ali – with the help of his family – established the multi-cultural Shans Supermarket, in Alice Street.

"He identified a gap in the market," said Naveer.

"Even with strong competition from national supermarkets in the town, it continues to operate successfully."

Naveer said Ali was renowned for his philanthropic activities.

"During his lifetime he generously gave to many charities and causes – both locally and internationally," he said.

He established an orphanage in Pakistan and services to support those suffering from extreme poverty.

And one of his final major contributions in Keighley was to help buy the land for the new Yorkshire Gardens of Peace cemetery near the tarn.

Ali is now buried there, along with his father – who died last October.

"This is a truly difficult and testing time for Ali's family and friends – our thoughts and prayers go out to his nearest and dearest," added Naveer.