TRIBUTES have flooded in following the death of a popular Bradford businessman.

After a long battle with illness Roger Banks, founder of wholesaler Mr Scratchings Ltd, sadly passed in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Roger was described as a "larger-than-life figure" and a "great inspiration" to all who met him by his business.

He was also a huge Bradford (Park Avenue) supporter. 

On a Facebook post on Saturday, Mr Scratchings Ltd said: "It is with a heavy heart that we must announce this sad news.

"At 12.15am this morning our founder, chairman and all-round great bloke Roger Banks sadly passed away.

"A larger-than-life figure, top salesman, lifelong Bradford (Park Avenue) supporter and a great inspiration to all who ever met him.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with his close partner of many years and his family at this sad time

"R.I.P. Chairman, missing you already."

Avenue said his "incredible generosity" earned him friendships all around the club.

Their statement read: "The club are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of lifelong supporter, Roger Banks after a long battle with illness.

"Roger, whose personality, hard work, and incredible generosity earned him friendships all around our club will be sadly missed.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."

Community answers

Pay your tributes to Roger Banks

"Leave your tributes and messages of condolence for popular businessman Roger Banks"

We asked for your responses - this is what you sent.

From Ricky Holden

Your tribute:Roger will be greatly missed, a top bloke, loved working with him at the Bradford Beer Festival. And I believe he loved being there. His Avenue loyalties didn't prevent him from watching City for a spell. An all round Bradfordian he will be irreplaceable. RIP old pal.

From John Bell

Your tribute:So sorry to hear about the passing of Roger. We spent many hours together at Bradford beer festival, me behind the bar with Roger and Annabelle behind their stall. I recall the bartering we did with beer and liquorice being the prime commodities. Top man.

From Greg Colehan

Your tribute:What a Wonderful kind and generous man was Roger , always had a smile and a joke and was fun to be around. Best wishes and condolences to all the family and friends and rest in peace Roger

From Ruth from Tesco’s Queensbury x

Your tribute:Very lovely gentleman will miss him dearly xxx

From Robert Stevenson

Your tribute:Roger R.I.P friend you was a great enthusiast in anything you put your mind to and gave 100% you will be missed by many

From Stew Molyneux

Your tribute:Roger was a top man. Knew him from Denholme Clough CC