READERS have paid tribute to historian and keen fundraiser Ron Mein who has died at the age of 82.

The former mill worker was instrumental in designing the many industrial history displays at the Lakeland Motor Museum which is built around part of the historic mill in which he worked as a young man.

One of his proudest achievements was assisting with the Museum’s World War One commemorative display which raises funds for the Royal British Legion. Since it was set up in 2014 it has raised well over £12,000.

Chris Lowe, curator at the Lakeland Motor Museum, said: “We are deeply saddened to hear the news about Ron. His long involvement with the museum helped shape its development and is a testament to his knowledge and passion for the area’s industrial heritage.

“The museum houses the Leven Valley Heritage Centre which he was instrumental in researching and creating. It depicts how life used to be in the Backbarrow Blue Mill and the valley’s iron works, gunpowder factories and woodland industries. Ron wrote all the information, supplied the many pictures and created the displays inside the windows.”

The Lakeland Motor Museum’s main showroom is built around what used to be the carton filling and wrapping department of Backbarrow’s famous ‘Dolly Blue’ mill complex where Ron started working in 1955 as a fifteen-year-old.

He spoke fondly of his time at the mill most particularly because it was where he first met a young woman called Dot who would later become his wife.

Wendy Warbis said: “We as a family will miss you ron may you rest in peace xx”

Karen Nott said: “Ronnie was a true gentleman, I have known him since I left school and he never change in all those years. My thoughts are with his wife and son and family..RIP Ronnie xx”

Helen Irving said: “Lovely man was Ron xx”

Irene Graham said: “Sad news.RIP.x”

Jacqueline Butler said: “Another good one gone, our thoughts are with you all. Xxxx”