A Cockermouth businessman who opened a town centre shop 55 years ago has died.

Leslie Cleeland died at his home above the Main Street shop on Tuesday aged 93.

He opened the furniture and carpet shop, Leslie Cleeland Ltd, in 1962 and ran it for 20 years before handing over to his son Michael.

Mr Cleeland opened the shop in the former Blue Bell pub building which had stood empty. He bought the pub from Jennings brewery.

The business proved so successful that Mr Cleeland, a former drummer in The Billy Bowman Band, took over two neighbouring shops and expanded it.

Billy Bowman, who owns the music shop in Lowther Went, remembers when Mr Cleeland used to play drums in his father's band in the 50s.

"He was fine, a great lad and a decent drummer," said Mr Bowman.

"He was good friends with my father, we lived near each other in St Helen's Street."

Before opening his shop, Mr Cleeland worked for the Co-op.

"I always remember him saying that because he made a little bit of extra money with the band he was able to branch out on his own and set up his business," said Mr Bowman.

"He will be remembered as a very good businessman."

Catherine Bell owns The Paper Shop, on Main Street.

"I hadn't seem him for a long time but everyone knows his shop. It's been here such a long time and is an important part of the town."

Mr Cleeland was married to the late Kathleen and had children Anne, Michael and Catherine. He was also a grandfather and great-grandfather.

The funeral service will be held at All Saints' Church, Cockermouth, at noon on Wednesday, November 15.

The shop will be closed on Wednesday afternoon.