Desira Group founder and chairman John Desira has died aged 78. Born in Tunis to a Maltese family, John was the eldest of eight siblings. What began as a single garage grew into Desira Group, one of East Anglia’s leading family-owned motor groups. In a statement the group said: “It is with great sadness that Michelle, Susan, Stuart and the Desira Family announce the passing of their founder and chairman, John Desira. “As a mark of respect, Desira Group will close all of its dealerships and offices at 12.00pm on Friday 14th August to honour John’s memory.