Tributes are being paid to the man who was instrumental in the building one of Norfolk's largest motor groups.

Eastern Daily Press: Alan Robinson with his wife Jean their home in 2004. Photo: Bill SmithAlan Robinson with his wife Jean their home in 2004. Photo: Bill Smith (Image: Archant � 2004)

Alan Robinson died on June 17 after a short illness. He was managing director of the Robinsons Motor Group after taking over from his father in 1956 and continued until his retirement in 1992, after which he remained as chairman until the age of 70.

Born in Norwich in 1924 he went to the Norwich School and joined the family firm in 1947 as a mechanic after war service in the RAF.

He stayed in Norfolk his whole life, living on Unthank Road, Eaton, with his wife Jean and children John, Alexis, Hilary and Sally.

On his retirement he moved to Brooke and farmed sheep with his wife in Shotesham until she became too ill and took care of her with his family until her death in September 2012.

Mr Robinson was a strong part of the Norwich community, being a member of The Strangers Club, Norwich Society, Norwich Number One Round Table, a Norwich Cathedral guide, and for nearly 40 years was a member of Norwich Rotary Club becoming president in 1989, having particular interest in the club's international exchange programmes. He became a fellow of the Institute of Motor Industry and for some years chairman of the Norwich Branch of the Motor Agents' Association.

He gave tours of Norwich Cathedral until he was unable to walk.

Daughter Sally Robinson said: 'He was a very caring man and very business focused, for he built up a lot of the main company, but he was just my dad.'

He took on the Volkswagen agency in 1957, Mercedes in 1961 and later Audi and with his leadership, the business expanded in the 60s, and in 1974 relocated to the new workshops and showrooms in Heigham Street, and in 1984 for Mercedes Benz, also in Heigham Street.

'Everyone who I have spoken to have said he will be missed,' Miss Robsinson added, 'he was a big part of people's communities and he was always helping everybody for good, he was that type of person.'

Mr Robinson is survived by his children, five grand children and three great grand children.