Evans, known for his spell at Airtours, went on to work for companies including Going Places and First Choice.

In 2004, he launched trade-only bed bank lowcostbeds and then consumer brand lowcostholidays, formng the basis of Lowcost Travel Group, which collapsed in 2016.

Travel and technology entrepreneur Steve Endacott posted a heartfelt tribute to Evans on LinkedIn on Monday (21 September), reflecting on his 35-year friendship – and, at times, rivalry – with Evans.

The pair met in 1991 at Airtours Holidays where Evans became Purchasing Director and Endacott was Commercial Director.

Endacott wrote: "Looking back, I feel fortunate to have shared those years with him and helped build a business we cared deeply about. Paul had an instinct for opportunity and the confidence to pursue ideas that others might have dismissed.

"Our careers continued to run alongside each other. Mike Batt of Carlson Companies persuaded us both to leave Airtours with the ambition of creating a new vertically integrated travel group.

"We spent the same year on gardening leave, drinking beer and planning the future. The venture never materialised, but the time we spent together remains a fond memory. So much of a friendship is found in those conversations between the big events."

Richard Carrick, Richard Carrick Consulting Chief Executive, was also at Airtours Holidays at the time as Evans and Endacott. "Paul was many things – enigmatic, a nervous bundle of immense energy, a phenomenal negotiator," he said.

"He was never short of a new idea, nor the ability to persuade you it was. He had great intellect and was great fun to work with. I learned a lot from him and I know many others did too."

Colin Pegler, Managing Director at Resort Marketing International, added: "Sad to learn of Paul's passing. Met him many times over the years and admired how he forged Lowcost Travel Group. Chatting to him was akin to being 'Tango'ed', in a good way. Thoughts and prayers to his family and friends, and former colleagues."