Tributes for Darlington Market's 'shining star' Robin Blair

The beloved greengrocer and town centre legend has been a familiar face at the market for more than 70 years.

Robin, whose grandfather founded of JJ Blair & Sons, has been described as “one of the most gentle and friendly faces to grace our town”.

He continued the incredible legacy of his 150-year-old family business for decades. 

Since his passing was announced on Monday (July 6), tributes have flooded in for Robin, who has been described as “an absolute gentleman and the backbone of the indoor market”.

Darlington MP Lola McEvoy said Robin was a "Darlington institution" and will be sorely missed. 

"My thoughts are with Robin's friends and family", she said.

"There will be many across our town, and I include myself, who will feel this loss.

Robin Blair at his Darlington Covered Market stall

"He was a very special man who had a beautiful way with people. I always left our encounters feeling grateful for them, buoyed by his charm and the twinkle in his eye.

"His dedication to the covered market and the garden centre, the fantastic Christmas trees and the pride he took in his business will be remembered by all the townspeople and many visitors for a very long time.

"A sad loss, a lovely man and an incredible contribution. RIP Mr Robin Blair - thank you."

Darlington Borough Council Deputy Leader and cabinet member for economy Chris McEwan said: “It is a very very sad day for Darlington. 

“Firstly, I would like to offer my condolences to Robin’s family but also his friends, of which he had many. I would count myself as a friend of Robin. 

“He was an absolutely legend. I never say irreplaceable, but he was irreplaceable. He and his family have a long history within the market and this town. 

“Robin was an institution. He will be missed by many, both by his customers and the wider community.”

(Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

Former Darlington MP Peter Gibson said Robin will be "missed by many".

He said: "Robin has been a familiar face for generations of people in Darlington, spending his whole life serving our community.

"It has been a pleasure to know him since I was elected and whether it was the PM, the Chancellor or any one of dozens of senior ministers I brought to see him, he was his same honest self, frank and forthright, and always smiling.

"We have lost one of the great traders of our town, and I know he will be missed by many. His family and close friends remain in my thoughts. May he rest in peace."

Former Darlington council leader Jonathan Dulston said Robin was a "part of growing up" and a "true local character whose dedication to our town will never be forgotten".

He said: "He was far more than a trader. Robin was a passionate advocate for our small independent businesses and a fearless campaigner who was never afraid to hold the council to account when he believed it was in the best interests of Darlington.

"His commitment to the town, its people and its future earned him the respect of many, even from those who didn’t always agree with him.

"Robin’s passing leaves a real gap in our community, but the difference he made and the legacy he leaves behind will continue to be felt for many years to come.

My thoughts are with his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him."

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said people like Robin are a "huge part of what makes where we live so special."

He said: "My thoughts are with Robin's family, friends and everyone at Darlington Market at this very sad time."

Launched just 12 years after Darlington Market first opened in 1863, the longstanding stall has weathered two world wars, several economic downturns and a global pandemic.

The Blair family originally started as nurserymen, growing produce to sell directly to customers from their Barmpton Lane farm, which still runs today. 

Wanting to reach a larger customer base, they decided to bring their harvest to the market, a venture initially undertaken by horse and cart. 

Robin started helping out at the tender age of five - and by the time he was 15, he had left school to become more involved in the family business. 

Eventually, he took the reins from his father after his retirement - and was still working just weeks ago.

(Image: NEWSQUEST)

Hundreds of people online have also paid tribute to the "Darlington legend”.

Victoria Hudspith-Bailey, of Darlington florist Haus of Moss, which was previously based at the market, said Robin "truly broke the mould".

She said: "Robin took me under his wing during my short time in the market. You will be truly missed Mr Blair, an absolute gentleman and a legend."

Robin Blair

In a statement the market, which will remain closed on Tuesday (July 7) as a mark of respect, said: “It is with profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Robin Blair.

“For more than 70 years, Robin has been a beloved greengrocer at Darlington Market, proudly continuing the incredible legacy of his 150-year-old family business, JJ Blair & Sons.

“As a mark of respect, the indoor market hall will remain closed on Tuesday.  Please note that the surrounding businesses outside the market hall will be open and trading as usual.

“Our deepest condolences go out to his friends, family, and the countless customers he has served over the decades. 

“Robin was truly one of the most gentle and friendly faces to grace our town, and his warm presence will be deeply missed by us all.

“Rest in peace Robin.”

Tributes poured in on social media, with one person saying: "Such sad news. Such a lovely man. Plenty of fond memories over the years. Thinking of all his family and friends.”

Another person said: “I’m so sad. Robin was one of the nicest men ever to be born.

“His smile, his kindness, he will be very sorely missed. A true gent inside and out. I shopped with him for years and years. Very sad news… best love to his family.”