FRANK Baldrey, a former managing director and chairman of Garringtons, has died at the age of 85.

Frank died at his home in Rous Lench after a four month battle with cancer. He leaves behind a wife, Pat, four children and five grandchildren.

He joined the massive Garringtons foundry, which was once Bromsgrove's largest employer, in 1968 and spent more than a decade there.

A keen sports fan, Frank was also one of the founder members of Droitwich Rugby Club, as well as helping to start up the Coyts share club at The Raven pub in Droitwich.

He had a close relationship with his colleagues at Garringtons, which was later known as UEF, who knew him as Franko.

Son Mike Baldrey reflected on his father's love of sport and team building.

"He was one of those people who sat in The Raven mumbling and grumbling and starting up the rugby club came from that.

"He was a Tottenham Hotspur supporter and always encouraged sports activities at Garringtons, such as the football, cricket and baseball.

"He started a regime of going around the shop floor every morning and seeing if everyone was OK.

"If someone had just had a baby or it was their birthday he would go and congratulate them." Frank's funeral will be held this Friday at St Peter's Church in Rous Lench, near Evesham.