Moss Tyres Founder Dies

Derek Moss, the found of the Moss Tyres chain of tyre and auto centres from Heslington, York, died last week on the eve of his 80th birthday after a five month battle against cancer. Announcing his passing the Yorkshire Press reported that Moss, who leaves a widow Pat, joined the tyre industry when he took up a job a Goodyear in Wolverhampton after completing National Service with the RAF.

It was here that he met his wife Pat before joining with his father to form Moss Tyres in 1957, later opening their first depot in Cemetery Road, York. It later re-located to Foss Islands Road as the company expanded to a total of 13 depots across Yorkshire. Moss also became involved in the Yorkshire National Tyre Dealers Association committee, and eventually became president of its national council in 1978.

David Falgate, who was sales director of Moss Tyres and worked there for 38 years, paid tribute to Mr Moss, saying: “Derek was a very good employer and a most considerate person. I enjoyed all my working life with him.”

Eric Wilson, who had been a friend since junior school days, said Moss had always been a popular figure and quietly did a lot of good work behind the scenes: “He supported many charities in addition to sponsoring individuals, although I only got to know this after he had died.”