A GRAPPENHALL dad who was pivotal in launching the George at Asda range, has died.

Geoffrey Carr, aged 66, dedicated his life to retail, family and enabling residents across Warrington to gain access to fresh produce.

As a boy, Geoffrey managed the books at his father’s green grocer on Bridge Lane in Appleton.

Under young Geoffrey’s meticulous eye for detail, the business thrived and one shop quickly became four.

The father-of-four, who died on May 23, attended Lymm Grammar School and graduated from Hertford College, Oxford in 1974

His son Oliver, 21, said: “He was one of the first students to gain an Oxbridge place at the time and he came from a very humble background.”

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After establishing himself as a retail guru in London, Geoffrey was approached by Asda in 1987 and was asked to join the main board as its strategy director.

It was during his five years at Asda, that Geoffrey made his greatest commercial achievement. He was instrumental in launching the George Davis George at Asda clothing range.

George at Asda quickly grew to become the fifth biggest clothing retailer in the UK.

A loving father to Arabella, 23, Oliver, 21, William, 30 and Alistair, 27, Geoffrey developed a strong passion for food and wine which led to his involvement in Slow Food across Cheshire.

Warrington Guardian:

Geoffrey Carr

The organisation focused on delivering good quality food and drink to people using local suppliers.

Geoffrey believed Cheshire had the best pastures in the country for meat and dairy and connected farmers across the county to supply fresh produce to residents.

He went on to dedicate so much of his life to fatherhood and being a mentor to his children and moved back to Grappenhall 15 years ago.

In his final years, Geoffrey lived with his aunt, Rev Margaret Jones, a vicar at St Wilfrid’s Church in the village.

Oliver added: “It is amazing what he did. He was so passionate about Warrington and getting everyone eating fresh produce, he just wanted to share his enjoyment with others.

“The one thing he loved more than food and drink was family. Everyone who met him said he was eccentric and a lovable character who could make a friendship with anyone from any background.

“He was an utter gentleman.”