Desira Group founder and chairman John Desira has died aged 78.
Born in Tunis to a Maltese family, John was the eldest of eight siblings. At the age of 12, he moved with his family to London, where he spent his formative years.
After leaving school, he began an apprenticeship as a mechanic with Henlys Jaguar in London, where he qualified as a mechanic.
In 1972, John and his wife, Susan and Brothers made the move from London to a small garage in South Lopham, Norfolk, where he founded Desira.
What began as a single garage grew into Desira Group, one of East Anglia’s leading family-owned motor groups.
The business will continue to move forward under the leadership of Managing Director Stuart Stone, together with the Desira Family and the wider management team, who remain committed to preserving John’s vision and ensuring that the company continues to thrive.
In a statement the group said: “It is with great sadness that Michelle, Susan, Stuart and the Desira Family announce the passing of their founder and chairman, John Desira.
“As a mark of respect, Desira Group will close all of its dealerships and offices at 12.00pm on Friday 14th August to honour John’s memory.
“His funeral will take place that afternoon at St John’s Catholic Cathedral, Norwich, starting at 1.00pm.
“Family, friends, colleagues, customers and members of the public are warmly invited to attend and pay their respects.
“Donations in John’s memory may be made to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospitals Charity
Click here to read the full statement
