A TRIBUTE has been paid to the manager of family-run coach company Hattons Premier Class travel who has passed away.

Kenneth George Hatton passed away on July 24, aged 69.

Ken owned and managed the family-run firm, along with sons Dave and Brian.

Hattons was founded in 1987 from small beginnings with just one dual purpose vehicle and was built up to its current fleet of 20 service buses and eight touring coaches.

An obituary placed in this week's Star has paid tribute to Ken.

It reads: "Passed away peacefully on July 24, 2019 aged 69 years. A loving husband of Rosemary, dear dad to David, Brian, and stepchildren Edward, John and Joanne. Kenneth will be sadly missed and much loved by all his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

"A funeral service will take place in Lowe House Church at 11am on Tuesday, August 27, 2019 followed by Committal at St Helens Crematorium.

"Family flowers only please and donations if desired c/o the funeral directors.

"For all enquiries please contact F W Marsh, 100 Parr Stocks Road, St Helens, WA9 1NZ Tel: 01744 27928. www.fwmarshfunerals.co.uk