HE was known to his friends and customers as "gentleman Jim" and clocked up 75 years in the same gents clothing store.

Tributes were paid today to the life of Jim Boyes, of Acomb, York, who has died, aged 93.

The pensioner hit the headlines a few years ago when he reached the remarkable 75-year milestone at Anderson's menswear, in Blake Street, York, receiving a special telegram from the Queen Mother. He eventually hung up his tape measure for good, aged 89.

Anderson's managing director Tony Morrissey, 74, was shown the ropes by Jim when he started as an apprentice. "I worked with him for more than 30 years and we never had a crossed word," he said.

"His attitude was fantastic and he remembered all of his customers' names. He will be sadly missed."

Jim, whose wife, Dora, died in 1976, was born and bred in York and lived for many years off Boroughbridge Road. He served in the Royal Air Force during the Second World War as a quartermaster in Sierra Leone.

Jim was also a committed Christian and worshipped at St Paul's Church, Holgate Road, for most of his life.

A lay preacher for more than 50 years, Jim also did stints as churchwarden, youth and house group leader and reader.

The Rev Derek Wooldridge, St Paul's former rector, said: "Jim was a wonderfully warm preacher - God was right at the centre of his life.

"He was a great support and never criticised anyone."

Jim's daughter, Caroline Frew, who now lives in Scotland, said: "He was a fantastic father and always there for me.

"He was always interested in other people and had a wicked sense of humour."

The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu recently sent Jim a personal Christmas card after making a special visit to his nursing home, Armarna House, off Boroughbridge Road.

Paul Graham, of Acomb, who visited Jim there regularly with his wife, Sue, said he was an inspiration to those around him.

"He was thrilled to meet Dr Sentamu," he said.

"Jim was a great friend and his ministry was second to none. At house group we used to hang on his every word."

Jim leaves his daughter, Caroline, and grandchildren, Graeme, John, Jane and Katie.

His funeral takes place tomorrow at St Paul's Church, Holgate Road, York, at 10.15am.