TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved businessman who created a 'legacy' in a Flintshire town.

Co-founder of Spaven Newsagents, Bill Spaven sadly passed away on Monday, May 6 at Bryn Edwin Hall Residential Home in Flint at the age of 90.

Born in Whitford, Holywell, on February 14, 1934, William Thomas Spaven (Bill) was a loving husband, dad, grandfather and great-grandfather "whose family meant everything to him", said son Alan.

The Leader: Bill SpavensBill Spavens (Image: Alan Spavens)

Bill started work in the forestry commission before joining the R.A.F for two-years national service.

He also worked for Allis-Charmers for many years before joining Dunlop in Wrexham.

Having a huge career change, Bill bought a newsagents in Mold with wife Joyce and son Alan. It was run as W.T & J Spaven & Son from 1980 and expanded by increasing the delivery rounds to cover all of Mold.

In 1991, Bill's daughter-in-law Rhian joined the family business as a partner and they worked together as two couples until Bill and Joyce retired in 2004.

The Leader: Spavens Newsagents in MoldSpavens Newsagents in Mold (Image: Tripadvisor)

Spavens, now a sweet shop and party venue, is a well-known family establishment within the Mold Community on Kings Street. 

Together, Rhian and Alan are continuing the legacy created by Bill and Joyce, ensuring the business continues to grow and thrive.

After over 43-years in Mold, Alan says he and Bill adapted the shop several times to survive, including introducing a party concept allowing children (and adults) to hire the venue for celebrations.

He said: "My father loved working and always had time for a chat and joke with anyone he met. 

"He always greeted everyone with his infectious smile."

On behalf of business individuals who felt inspired by Bill, including retired mayor Teresa Carberry and newly appointed mayor Cllr. Brian Lloyd, a spokesperson from Mold Town Council said: "Mold Town Council would like to offer its deepest condolences to the Spaven family following the loss of Bill Spaven.

"Bill was a well-liked and respected member of Mold’s business community and always had time for a chat with his customers. 

"It is a credit to Bill (and Joyce) that son Alan and wife Rhian have continued trading under the Spaven name since taking over in 2004, following Bill’s retirement. 

"The Spaven name is well established within the town, not just in Mold but due to the popularity of the sweet shop, customers come from further afield to visit.

"Bill has created a legacy and will be greatly missed by all those had the pleasure to know him.”

Described as an 'absolute gentleman' and 'true diamond', family friends and loyal customers have also shared their condolences on the Spavens, Mold Facebook page.

A former employee of Bill's, Damian Smyth, said: "First boss. Best boss."

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Another, Sahra Al-Rashed, said: "So many fond memories. He loved his tea and toast in the morning as well as ice cream at 7am!"

He had the "loveliest smile and the warmest heart", customer Sonia Hellen added.

The funeral of Bill Spaven will be held at 1pm on May 28 at Flintshire crematorium.