A businessman from East Lancashire has died in California at the age of 84.

Frederick Robert Blakey – known to family and friends as Bob – was best known for his involvement in the family firm L Blakey (Finance), which ran until 1998.

Mr Blakey had moved out to Pacific Palisades recently to be closer to his daughter Gillian and her family, as his health declined.

With his wife of 55 years, Janet, he had been a visitor to the West Coast of the United States for more than 20 years.

He also leaves two sons, Steven and Nicholas, and nine grandchildren.

His funeral is being held in Los Angeles and his ashes will be scattered on Pendle Hill.

Steven said: “My dad was born in Burnley and, throughout his working life, had been a successful and prominent businessman in the North West of England.

“Throughout his life, he had a passion for sport and education. All three of his children went to QEGS and still have strong ties with the school, providing the Blakey scholarship for a series of successful sixth formers which has run for a number of years.”

Bob turned out at centre-half for Burnley Colts, and represented Dorset, where he was stationed with the Pay Corps while undertaking his National Service.

He qualified as a chartered accountant in 1956 and made his home in the Whalley area, where he lived until relocating to the US in 2012.

Mr Blakey was chairman of Westholme Sports Association in Blackburn and was a keen tennis and badminton player. He also played bridge on the local club circuit.