Tributes have been paid to a “true gentleman” who turned his business into one of the most respected in Kent.

Father-of-five Adrian Ovenden died at William Harvey Hospital in Ashford on February 1 at the age of 80.

As founder of Ovenden Plant Hire, which celebrates 50 years in business this year, Mr Ovenden oversaw the growth of the Aylesham-based firm from a small start-up to one of the biggest names in construction in the county.

The Nonington resident was also well known in motorsport, having been a regular face at Lydden Hill Race Circuit – where his family regularly compete in rallycross events.

Ovenden Plant Hire announced the news in a statement, saying: “It is with great sadness that we inform you of the passing of our founder Adrian Ovenden.

“For 50 years he has inspired generations of plant operators and his passion for construction will live on in the company and his family.”

Many of those who knew Mr Ovenden were quick to pay their respects, with the grandfather-of-eight highly thought of by many across the area.

Adam Cross described Mr Ovenden as “a legend” and expressed gratitude for opportunities he offered him “when many wouldn’t”.

“I will miss seeing him at the rallycross, always smiling and joking but he always had time to stop and chat. Thoughts and prayers are with the whole family”, he said.

Carolyn Hunt described Mr Ovenden as “such a lovely and loveable man” who “exuded generosity and fun”.

Former employee James Doble reflected fondly on his time working with Mr Ovenden, saying: “Adrian was a true gentleman who never saw bad in anyone and gave everyone a chance.

“I, like others, have so many fond memories of working for him.

“When I first started, I had a young family and Adrian used to support me by finding extra work at weekends.

“You’ll be sadly missed by so many.

“Thank you for everything you did for me and my family. You will never be forgotten.”

Another employee, Phillip Westlake, added: “Adrian was such a lovely man with a great sense of humour; I always enjoyed his company at work, the pub or just out and about.

“I was only ever slightly fearful of him once 20 years ago when driving his low-loader lorry. It had a digger on that was only a few weeks old, and I got it firmly stuck under the Chestfield railway bridge.

“I waited several months until he’d had a few drinks at the pub before I’d dare mention it and apologise.

“I needn’t have worried, he just laughed and told me about a few incidents of his own with the lorry.

“My condolences to the Ovenden family, Adrian will be very much missed by all that knew him, he brightened up a lot of people’s lives.”

Bosses at Lydden Hill, where Mr Ovenden’s son Tristan and grandson Will are set to compete in rallycross events this year, also sent their thoughts to the family.

Mr Ovenden’s funeral starts at 2pm on Friday, March 1 at St Mary the Blessed Virgin in Woodnesborough.

It will also be live streamed via this link.

Ovenden Plant Hire said: “Everyone is welcome to attend the service and join family and friends in a celebration of his life at Knowlton Court afterwards.

“For family members there will be a private burial after the service.”

The family is requesting family flowers only at the service but say donations can be made to Cancer Research UK.