Tributes are being made in memory of a senior figure in the island’s business community who has been described as a ’really decent guy’ and ’a friend to many’.

Edward ’Eddie’ Shallcross, aged 79, died peacefully at Hospice Isle of Man.

He was born in Liverpool in June, 1940 and had lived in the island since 1987 when he came over to be island manager of Barclays, said law firm boss and good friend Larry Keenan.

Mr Keenan told Business news: ’I understand that when Eddie started, the bank on the island had some six branches employing in the region of 60 people. When he retired there were about 300 people.

’The momentum started under Eddie, who had the vision to deliver an offshore bank for the international expats and businesses.

’He persuaded the decision makers in the bank to support his vision , which was what the island need to develop the financial services here. At the same time he met and developed a solid and mutually beneficial working relationship with the Government of the day ; Sir Miles Walker and Don Gelling being two of the notables.

’As an adopted son of the island he fully committed himself, supported by his loving family in the development of opportunities for the island and in my view was a significant contributor to this.’

Mr Keenan added: ’Eddie was a natural leader who had the confidence and his team at Barclays to do things which many at the time may have thought unachievable for some years into the future. But he proved the doubters wrong and the success of his efforts speaks for itself.

’As well as a committed husband and father and grandfather. Eddie was a genuine friend to many. A really decent guy.’

More recently he was a non-executive director with Bahamas Petroleum Company of Hope Street, Douglas.

The company said he had died after a ’relatively short illness’ last week.

The company said:’The Board extends its deepest sympathies to Eddie’s family and would like to acknowledge its gratitude for his significant contribution to the company over many years.’

Bill Schrader, chairman of Bahamas Petroleum said: ’It is with the greatest sadness that we learned of the death of Eddie, who contributed so significantly to making Bahamas Petroleum what it is and will be.

’Eddie had been on the board for the duration of my tenure as chairman, having been a member since 2011.

’As such Eddie has seen the company grow and mature and been the custodian of the many processes a company such as ours requires in this day and age. As chairman of the audit committee we all valued his attention to detail, his thoroughness and professionalism. His guidance, intelligence and humour will be sorely missed by all in the company.’

Mr Shallcross was the husband of the late Dorothy and the father of Mark, Wendy and Tim. He was also a grandfather of six. A service of celebration and thanksgiving will be held at Broadway Baptist Church at 1pm on Friday, November 1. Family have asked that donations in lieu of flowers be sent to Pancreatic Cancer Action, Oakhanger Business Park, Hampshire.

Tributes have appeared on a site called muchloved.com where people can also donate to the charity mentioned above. Steve and Allison McGowan wrote: ’What a man! What a legend !

’It’s not often you can say what a privilege it is to know someone but I can certainly say that about Eddie.

’I’ve known Eddie for over 20 years and he is the kindest and most genuine person you could ever meet and whilst this is a huge loss to his family and friends it is also a massive gain for Dot and everyone else we love that is together with Eddie now.’

’Much love Eddie, we will miss you dearly.’