Bryan Huxford, the former owner of Cleethorpes Pier, has died aged 85 following a short illness, with the Grimsby Telegraph praising his stewardship as having returned the pier “to its former glory.”

The Humberside Airport co-owner and vice-chair of Grimsby Town FC purchased the 335 ft landmark in 2013 after it failed to sell at auction, and undertook a programme to safeguard the structure “for future community ownership.”

“He was always looking for an opportunity but also craved to give something back to the area,” said a statement from his family. “This saw the acquisition of the Cleethorpes Pier, transforming it from a nightclub to a fine-dining restaurant, tea room and cocktail bar, as well as a function room for live acts and business meetings.”

Following the investment, the pier was named Pier of the Year 2016 by the NPS, which noted “the restoration of the Pier at Cleethorpes, and its Pavilion in particular, has won overwhelming support.”

Huxford sold Cleethorpes Pier the same year to Papas fish and chip shop, and in 2020 retired to spend more time with his family.

“A funeral will be held at Grimsby Crematorium on April 15 at 1.30 pm to be attended by family and close friends,” reported the Grimsby Telegraph. “Family flowers only are requested with donations in lieu to the British Heart Foundation.”