The family of Blackburn chef Sher Mohammed who opened one of the longest-surviving curry houses in the UK have released an early picture of him.

Sher Mohammed, who came to the UK from Pakistan in the 1950s, first opened what was then known as the Khyber Café in Whalley Range, Blackburn, in 1967.

He died on Janaury 18.

It has been one of the most popular restaurants in the North West renowned for its authentic taste.

READ MORE: Tributes to legendary chef Sher Mohammed

Small and with seating for less than 30, loyal customers helped to elevate it to legendary status.

Sher started cooking curries when he was 12 – when he learnt how to make lentil curry. He cooked over a gas barrel in Karachi.

He learned to perfect his recipes on his own because his mother died when he was born and his father died when he was 10.

And Sher, known as ‘Cha Cha’ (uncle), to his customers, said practice was the key to his success.

Lancashire Telegraph:

A family tribute read, "As the sun rose into daylight on the 18 January 2019, our hearts filled with darkness as we said a final goodbye to our beloved father Sher Mohammed. He was a loving husband, a caring father and a doting grandad (baba).

"Abji .. your loss has been the most hardest thing to accept and we will cherish all your memories forever. 

"You touched each one of us in so many different ways. We will never be the same without you.

"You showered us with your love and concern for us and most importantly set a fine example for us to carry on your name with pride. 

"You lived an exceptional life and we want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts for being a part of our lives.

"We love you and miss you and we are very very proud of you. You will always remain in our hearts and prayers forever. 

"Sleep tight Abji. .till we meet again ..in sha Allah xx"