A WELL-respected businessman has died just weeks after reaching a high point in his career.

A post-mortem examination revealed that Michael Baker, managing director of Michael Baker Fine Jewellery in King Street, Maidstone, died from heart disease. He was 33.

The death of the married father-of-two has left colleagues, friends and family deeply shocked. He lived with his family in Grove Green, near Maidstone.

Mr Baker attended The Cornwallis School, Linton, and left at the age of 16 to go straight into business. He worked for a number of firms in the Maidstone area, including the jewellers G Cornell & Son, Gabriel's Hill, before setting up his own store in partnership with Keith Haycock six years ago.

Although Mr Haycock cut ties with the firm several years ago, the business traded as Baker and Haycock Ltd until the end of October this year, when it was relaunched as Michael Baker Fine Jewellery.

Colleague and friend Tony Broadrick said: "The relaunch was a highlight to Michael.To have his name above the door in the High Street, that to him meant he had achieved. It was good he had seen that happen."

Mr Baker became president of Maidstone Riverside Rotary Club this year, and was involved in supporting many good causes, in particular heart charities following the death of his father seven years ago from a heart attack. He was also a member of Maidstone Business Forum.

Mr Broadrick said: "He was passionate about quality, and believed in a more modern contemporary style, with a great personal service. He was often out in the evenings meeting clients.

"The shop remains open as normal and we will continue to give the good service that Michael built his reputation on."

Mr Baker, a keen golfer, was known as a jovial and generous man. "He was very outgoing, very warm," said Mr Broadrick. "He would do anything for anybody, or help anyone if he possibly could, and he used to take enormous pride in getting new clients and developing the business. His family were very proud of him."

Mr Baker is survived by his mother Sylvia, brothers Steve, Peter and Raymond, his wife Anna, and children Abigail and Thomas.

The funeral will be held at St Mary The Virgin and All Saints Church, Boxley, on Tuesday (December 14) at 11am.

Family flowers only. All donations are payable to the British Heart Foundation and should be sent to the funeral directors, MA Lawrence, 93 King Street, Maidstone ME14 1BG.