Tributes paid to businessman who ran well known Robs of Tipton shop

Robert Anthony Andrews owned Robs of Tipton in Bloomfield Road for 26 years and was a well known, friendly face in the town.

The grandfather-of-seven and well-known Tipton Harriers member died on Friday, April 27 'peacefully and painlessly' with his family by his side.

His son James Andrews said: "Dad was well known and loved. He loved being in business and was a well respected businessman.

"He was charismatic and had an infectious outlook on life and he loved spending time with people."

Known locally as the Blackpool Shop, Mr Andrews's little store, which he ran from from 1976 to 2002 with his late wife Glynis, sold anything from wellies to Christmas decorations.

The couple, of Oakham Road in Dudley, had also owned a little shop in Netherton for two years, now known as Allans Of Netherton, before moving to the Sandwell area to open Rob's.

A busy pair, they spent their years juggling the raising of their five children along with running a raft of other businesses in Tipton, including City Cafe, the Royal Hotel, the King's Arms pub and the City Snooker Hall.

In his spare time, when he found some, Mr Andrews was a respected member of running club Tipton Harriers. He also never missed a sporting event at his children's school, Tettenhall College in Wolverhampton, of which he was a great supporter.

Friend and former Head of PE at the school Jan Taylor said Mr Andrews was 'an absolute legend on so many levels'.

She said: "He was an elite performer and an inspirational coach to many. A physiological guru linked to all things scientific in sport, a joker, a business man, community king, a friend, my friend, my supporter but most of all a dad and grandad above all others.

"Rob you believed in family values and giving endlessly and I shall never ever forget your support at Tettenhall College. You made time for everyone and we all loved you for it and the memories you gave us are all our blessings."

As a youth, Mr Andrews was a talented track, road and cross-country runner, with his best event being the 800 metres. He represented the Harriers at club and county level and ran at the English Schools Championships.

He also always turned out for the Harriers' famous Boxing Day handicap event, which he won in 2016.

Later he turned to coaching and was made a Life Member of the club in 2016 for his service over the years.

Friend and Tipton Harriers member Dave Brackpool said: "Rob always turned out for the club year round and was a reliable and dependable club member, who was helpful and supportive of other club members, whether training or racing."

Mr Andrews's funeral will be held on Monday, May 21 at Gornal Wood Crematorium at 11am.

Flowers are welcome and the family are also taking donations for Tipton Harriers.