Tributes paid to pet shop boss who died without warning

Tributes have been paid to a pet shop boss who went out of his way to help customers. Tom Young, who ran Troon Pets and Aquaria for the past 16 years with his wife Audrey, died without warning last week aged just 62.

A notice on the door of the Church Street shop - which doubled in size after a chain-store rival quit the town - says it will remain closed for the time being due to the bereavement.

The town’s business community learned of his sudden death on Friday.

One social media message summed him up perfectly.

Katrina Macdonald said: “I’m so very shocked, all the family are.

“Audrey and Tom have been part of our lives for such a long time from when my first two children were young to the present day with my last two.

“I’m so sad about this news, he was a good man and a fantastic pet shop owner.

“He will be sorely missed.

“Our thoughts are with Audrey. What a loss.”

Over the years Tom had built-up vast knowledge of small household pets such as rabbits and gerbils as well as tropical fish.

And he was a true double act with Audrey, ensuring customers always received the best advice.

Tom’s funeral is being held today (Thursday) at Masonhill Crematorium.