A Norfolk Chip shop entrepreneur who ran the award-winning Grosvenor Fish Bar for 35 years, has died at the age of 77.

The family of Mauro Motta has paid tribute, describing him as a "colourful character" that "everyone knew" in the community.

Born to Gino and Gianina Motta on June 23, 1945 in Italy and at the age of nine, he moved with his parents to South Wales.

Eastern Daily Press: Mr Motta ran several successful fish and chip shop businesses in the Norwich area, including the Rembrandt in Easton and Grosvenor Fish Bar in the city centreMr Motta ran several successful fish and chip shop businesses in the Norwich area, including the Rembrandt in Easton and Grosvenor Fish Bar in the city centre (Image: Mr Motta's family)

With his father running a fish and chip shop in Caerphilly, Mr Motta learnt the tricks of the trade he would dedicate his working life to.

At the age of 16, he met his future wife Rosanna, who came from a remarkably similar background - also born to Italian parents who ran a chippie in nearby Pontypridd.

Together, they moved to Norwich in 1968 and continued in their parent's footsteps by buying their own fish bar in Stafford Street.

Over their long career, the pair operated 12 different chippies in the area, taking them on and fixing them up before moving on to a new venture.

Eastern Daily Press: Christian Motta took over Grosvenor Fish Bar from his parents 11 years agoChristian Motta took over Grosvenor Fish Bar from his parents 11 years ago (Image: Newsquest)

Grosvenor Fish Bar was one of their businesses, which was later handed over to son Christian Motta, who has run it with partner Duane Dibartolomeo for the past 11 years and has gone on to gain national acclaim and a host of awards.

On behalf of the family, Mr Dibartolomeo said: "Mauro had a few health conditions he was fighting but his death has come as a shock to all of us. 

"He was a fantastic cook and together with Rose, who has really good business sense, they became successful entrepreneurs. 

"Everyone seemed to know him - some customers have followed them through all their restaurants and always ask how he is.

"We will all miss his colourful character."

Messages of support and condolences have poured in on social media after the news was shared yesterday on the Grosvenor Fish Bar's Facebook. 

People recalled their memories of meeting him, whether it was popping in for a bag of chips or working at one of his many chip shops in the area.

Mr Dibartolomeo added: "We want to thank all of you for being part of his and our lives throughout the years."