Customers and former colleagues have paid tribute to Springside Motors director Graham Irvine following his “sudden passing”.

Hundreds of tributes have been added to the Facebook page of the Kia UK franchised car retailer, based in Irvine, Ayreshire, since it announced the death of Irvine last week.

A post added to the business’s website stated that the showroom would be closed for three days following last week’s “tragic news”.

Posted on May 16, the message stated: "Due to the sudden passing of one of our Directors, Graham Irvine, Springside Motors will be closed until Wednesday, May 18.

"Our thoughts are with the family at this time. Thank you for your understanding."

Messaging the dealership – 2012’s most improved Kia franchised site – to pay tribute to Irvine, Paul Devlin wrote: “So sorry to hear about the passing of Graham what a job he and all at Springside motors have done putting Kia on the map all around Scotland he will be sadly missed.”

Rhona Gibson said: “So shocked and saddened to hear this news. A true gentleman who cared about his customers. Our sincere condolences to his family and colleagues at Springside.”