Staff at Esh Group have paid tribute to chief executive Brian Manning, who has died after a short battle with cancer at the age of 60.

Mr Manning began his career with Monk Construction, where he spent nearly 17 years, before joining Lumsden & Carroll as general manager in 1990. He was appointed managing director in 1991.

He then led the steady growth of the Durham-based Esh Group to a firm with turnover approaching £300 million and employing more than 1,000 staff across the North East and Scotland.

Mr Manning earned a significant reputation as one of the North East’s most astute businessmen with a vision to serve the community.

Speaking on behalf of Esh Group, chairman Michael Hogan said: “All of our thoughts are with Brian’s family at this very sad time.

“The success of Esh Group is a massive testament to Brian as a person and a businessman, and all staff are united in continuing his remarkable legacy, in his memory.”