THE Black Country business community has been devastated by the death of leading Brierley Hill-born entrepreneur Don Richardson.

Don, aged 77, died peacefully in his sleep at his Cotswolds home in the presence of family members yesterday (Thursday September 6).

The industrialist had been suffering from a brain tumour and his health had deteriorated quickly over the last few months.

Along with twin brother Roy, Don built a hugely successful business in construction with the development of the Merry Hill Centre, on the derelict site of Round Oak steelworks, the jewel of a glittering industrial crown.

Ian Brough, from Richardson Capital LLP, said: "Very few people in life do things which really make a difference, but they made a real difference.

"They created opportunities for so many people as well as themselves and cared a lot about the Black Country.

"He didn't want to go off to sunnier climes to avoid tax liabilities, Don was a Black Country man."

After leaving Wrights Lane school in Old Hill aged 14, Don and Roy set up their business partnership which many believe was unique.

The Richardson company was built on haulage and general trading but the recession of the 1980s caused a change of emphasis towards construction.

The brothers developed multi-million pound sites in many parts of the country and took on the challenge of developing the 300-acre Merry Hill site in the belief it would kick start regeneration of the surrounding area.

The massive shopping and leisure complex now provides jobs for 10,000 workers and is a recognised landmark throughout Europe.

Until recently Don lived in Hagley and was known in equal measure as an award winning industrialist and supporter of a range of charities and good causes.

Ian Brough said: "The trademark associated with Don and Roy is hard work, commitment and passion that they gave to everything they have undertaken."

Don's family are planning a private funeral, details of a memorial service are yet to be released.