A CULLINGWORTH couple who run a bike shop have paid tribute to the founder of the business following his death aged 101.

Johnny Mapplebeck started Whitaker and Mapplebeck Cycles – now Pennine Cycles – in Bradford, with his friend Geoff Whitaker, in 1946.

Paul and Sandra Corcoran bought the business from Mr Mapplebeck 20 years ago when he retired and emigrated to Canada. At that time Paul managed the shop.

He said they had remained good friends and it was “very sad” to hear of his death.

“Johnny opened the bike shop with his friend after returning from the war and over the years built a very successful business with lots of ups and downs along the way,” said Paul.

“If you ever came into the shop when Johnny was there you were always met with a warm welcome, a drink and one of his many wonderful stories.

“Our thoughts are with his family right now and all his friends.”

Paul and Sandra marked their 20th anniversary at the helm of the shop earlier this year, when they paid tribute to the business’s many customers around the world for their continued support.