Tributes have poured in for a Norwich tourism ambassador who has died aged 76.

On Monday, July 3 it was announced that trips on the popular City Sightseeing red open-top bus would be suspended until further notice.

The reason for this has now been announced as a mark of respect due to the death of its proprietor David McMaster.

Mr McMaster, of Awayadays and City Sightseeing Norwich, died suddenly but peacefully at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital on Saturday, July 1.

Norwich Evening News: The famous red open-top City Sightseeing Norwich bus Picture: Richard JarmyThe famous red open-top City Sightseeing Norwich bus Picture: Richard Jarmy (Image: Richard Jarmy)

The tours will recommence on Wednesday, July 12 and it will be run by his loyal and dedicated team.

Beryl McMaster, his wife of 52 years, said: "I feel immensely proud to have worked alongside my husband promoting Norwich and Norfolk.

"He never wanted to retire, he thoroughly enjoyed driving the bus and welcoming visitors to the city.

"I am fortunate that the team we have in place is carrying on David’s relentless drive to promote our fine city.”

Norwich Evening News: Husband-and-wife team of 52 years David and Beryl McMaster on board a City Sightseeing bus Husband-and-wife team of 52 years David and Beryl McMaster on board a City Sightseeing bus (Image: Supplied)

The sightseeing tour, which runs from April until October with nine stops, celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.

Mr McMaster's tourism remit extended to being a former director of Visit Norwich and chairman of Norwich Attractions.

His knowledge of Norfolk grew from his position managing the farming co-operative Aylsham Growers.

In 1997, he decided on a complete change of lifestyle and launched Awayadays with bus hire and tours. 

Norwich Evening News: Beryl and David McMaster collecting an award from Enrique Ybarra at the 2022 City Sightseeing Worldwide Annual Conference in Gran Canaria Picture: City Sightseeing WorldwideBeryl and David McMaster collecting an award from Enrique Ybarra at the 2022 City Sightseeing Worldwide Annual Conference in Gran Canaria Picture: City Sightseeing Worldwide (Image: City Sightseeing Worldwide)

He also introduced evening tours of Norwich with a Blue Badge Guide.

In 2003, global franchise firm City Sightseeing helped him set up the Norwich service, with free vintage bus rides at Christmas raising money for charity.

Enrique Ybarra, president and CEO of City Sightseeing Worldwide, said: "I was saddened to learn of the passing of David McMaster - he will be sorely missed.” 

Mr McMaster was father to Emma, John and Charlie and was also a grandfather.

Donations to the Big C can be made in his memory at ivanfisher.co.uk.