TRIBUTES have been paid to a Pakefield man who was one of the pioneers of a Norwich retail group.

Clive Rowe's body was found at Bloodmoor Road in south Lowestoft last week.

The 59-year-old married father-of-two was a founding member and former chairman of the Norwich Lanes Traders' Association. Over the last 22 years, he had helped his wife Anne grow the long-established women's clothes shop Walkers in Norwich and had worked tirelessly to help raise the profile of the city's historic Lanes.

Mr Rowe leaves his wife and their two children Mark and Becky.

Mrs Rowe, his wife of 32 years said: 'Clive was the best husband anyone could wish for and I couldn't have asked for more. He was a keen sailor and loved the great outdoors, we loved walking and cycling together.

'We had just bought a house together in Normandy and were looking forward to spending a lot more time there. We only recently returned from France after a lovely family holiday with both our children.

'I am so grateful for all the wonderful memories of the times we have spent together. It is devastating that we will never know why he chose to take his own life. Thanks to all my friends and family for being so supportive whilst we come to terms with this tragedy.'

His daughter Becky, 30, added: 'Dad was passionate about small businesses and was a real champion of the unique shopping experience offered by all the businesses in the Norwich Lanes. It was hard work to get it all established and he worked tirelessly.

'He was a fantastic husband and loving father. We all will miss him every day. Thank you to everyone who has been so kind to us.'

Mr Rowe's body was found near the footbridge over Bloodmoor Road at about 3.20pm on Monday, November 19.

An inquest into his death was opened and adjourned on Monday.

Mr Rowe's funeral will be private and for family and close friends only. As he was a keen sailor, his family is asking for any donations be made to the RNLI.

Donations can be made its website www.rnli.org.