One of Kent’s most high profile entrepreneurs has died.

Jimmy Godden, famous for his amusements empire along the coast, passed away last night, his office has confirmed.

It is understood he had been suffering from cancer.

A spokesman for his office said today: "Sadly Jimmy Godden did pass away last night.

"As you can understand his family are grieving but they will be issuing a statement shortly."

Folkestone-born Mr Godden was the former boss of Dreamland in Margate and the Rotunda in Folkestone and had also operated Ramsgate Pleasure Park.

He was described as having developed a wide portfolio of investments and owned other properties in east Kent such as in Folkestone, including JG’s amusement arcade in the town centre, and in Dover and Ramsgate.

The Rotunda was a major landmark on Folkestone seafront and the largest unsupported concrete dome in Europe.

Dreamland in Margate

It was finally demolished on Mr Godden’s orders in December 2002.

He said at the time: "People don’t want to come to the seaside any more for rides.

"We can’t look backwards. The building was decaying and past its sell by date."