'Singh is King': Tributes pour in for popular Preston market hall trader Gary Singh who has died aged 53

Gary Singh, 53, died yesterday (Wednesday, September 9) after a more than year-long battle with cancer, say his family.

He was a long established and respected trader at Preston’s former indoor market, where he worked for more than three decades.

Gary was from Manchester but travelled to Preston every day to run his food stall, before he moved to Chorley Market following the closure of Preston's indoor market in 2018.

During his three decades serving the people of Preston, his stall became a cornerstone of the city's Afro-Caribbean community, where families could find a wide range of African and Jamaican fruits, vegetables and spices.

Gary's many friends and loyal customers have shared fond memories of the man, who was affectionately known to many as 'King Singh'.

Friend and colleague, Nick Hunter, who shared a stall with him for many years, said his friend died with his family by his side.

"Today we lost a brother, an uncle and quite possibly the nicest man I had the privilege to know," said Nick.

"He was surrounded by his family and passed with love and prayers.

"In his own words “Singh is King” and for the first time in our long friendship I’m going to agree with him.

"Gaz Singh, you are a King. God bless."

Sybil Kirnon, whose family had been loyal customers of Gary's for many years, said: "Gary Singh, you were the original supplier of Afro Caribbean food in Preston for over 30 years.

"You provided this service for our parents, ourselves and the rest of the Preston community, always with a smile and this we thank you for.

"You knew our parents and their children by name. As our parents got older and many couldn't make it to your stall, you'd say it's OK I'll deliver, which you did out of the kindness of your heart.

"Gary to us you were....no, you are FAMILY.

"If l remember rightly its about a year ago since you rang that bell on the ward after your last round of chemo.

"Gary... You certainly have left your family of Preston market traders, your side kick Nick Hunter, and all your Afro Caribbean families and friends that met you with many, many happy memories that we will never forget.

"Now God has called you home so Good Night, keep smiling and we'll always smile as we remember "Singh is King".

Janet Hypolite, another loyal customer, said: "Very sad news, he was a pillar of the community and king of the market for many years. We had some jokes, a true gentleman and an absolute legend. RIP Uncle G."

Long-time customer Stuart Griffiths remembers how Gary was always eager to help and give advice on how to make the most of the fresh food he sold.

He said: "RIP Gary. Will always remember when I wanted to start making curries but didn’t have a clue how to start.

"I spoke to you in the market and you gave me all the ingredients to start and a few tips. I've been making them regular ever since."

Another customer with fond memories of Gary, Laura Thirtle, added: "What a fantastic, funny man. One of life's special people who you only come across once. So sad."