THE entrepreneur who created the marina at Upton-upon-Severn has died at the age of 65.

Keith Webb saw the potential of a flooded brickworks at the side of the River Severn in the early 1970s, turning it into one of the country's largest inland marinas.

Mr Webb, who came from a farming background, began his career by transforming Fir Tree Garage, at Much Cowarne, where he lived with wife Yvonne for ten years during the 1960s.

His business acumen helped turn it from a place with just three petrol pumps to a large thriving concern, with two showrooms, a workshop and large house. It is now home to Hereford Land Rover.

Mrs Webb said her husband was a quiet man, popular among business associates and friends, with a good sense of humour and strong convictions. His success in Herefordshire allowed him to realise an idea he had of establishing a marina in Upton.

"He was getting itchy feet," said Mrs Webb.

"He was an ambitious man, always looking forward. His vision was incredible. He had a lot of determination.

"At that time, Upton was in decline and the marina, which won a Civic Award, contributed towards the regeneration of the prosperity of the town, which is so in evidence today."