Tributes paid after John Pye co-founder dies

“He was immensely proud of what John Pye & Sons has become, which is thanks to his determination, vision and every single one of the extended John Pye family – his colleagues over all the years,” the statement added.

“He founded John Pye & Sons in 1968 with just a horse and cart, and lived to see a small business grow into a British industry leading company.

“Those of you who knew him or met him will know of his larger than life character, and the positive and playful impact he had on those around him.

“A true local legend.”

For the first two decades, the firm specialised in managing probate house clearances, cessation of business asset disposals and private chattels.

In 1990, the company was incorporated as ‘John Pye & Sons Limited’ and relocated to larger premises at Banton House in Meadow Lane, near Notts County’s stadium, to expand its client base in the East Midlands.

It later acquired the former Shipstone’s ‘Star’ Brewery site in New Basford in 1995 as the business grew in the 1990s, the company said.

The company added it first moved from live traditional auctions to 24-hour timed auctions in 2007.

In addition to the company’s head office in Nottingham, it now has auction hubs across the country, including in Derby, Birmingham, Bo’ness and Margam, with a further site in Zaragoza, Spain.

“On behalf of the Pye family, we would like to thank everyone for their kind words and support at this incredibly sad time.

“He will be greatly missed by all of us,” the statement from the firm added.