A “DEDICATED” Kidderminster businessman whose company made engine parts for Formula 1 racing cars has died.

Mike Wigley, who set up engineering firm Foley Patterns Ltd with friend Terry Thornton more than 18 years ago, was well known in the town where, up until eight years ago, he was part of a snooker team at Franche Village Club.

He died last Thursday, aged 68, leaving behind wife Linda, his two children and two grandchildren.

Paying tribute to him, Mrs Wigley said he was loved by everyone who knew him.

“He was very much a gentleman and a quiet person,” she added. “If he could do anything for anybody, he would do it.

“He would pick up a broom and sweep up himself rather than ask his staff to do it. He was well liked throughout his business.

“He was well known in Kidderminster. Everyone who knew him loved him. He’s given a lot of people jobs.”

Mr Wigley founded Foley Patterns with Mr Thornton after the engineering pattern-makers were made redundant from a Belbroughton firm.

The company, which now employs 12 people, was based in Lisle Avenue, Kidderminster for 17 years but moved to Stourbridge in 2011 after the business expanded.

During the early years, they made engine parts and gear boxes for Formula 1 cars, as well as doing work for major airline projects.

Mr Thornton, who worked with Mr Wigley for more than 40 years, said: “[Mike] was a friend, and a very hardworking and dedicated family man.

“He enjoyed being at work but he also enjoyed his family life. His family came first. He was a lovely chap.

“He loved being on the shop floor – that’s where his enjoyment was. We have both done some interesting work.”

He added Mr Wigley, who ran the workshop, remained a director of the firm after retiring three years ago before recently resigning from the role.