Some of the more 'mature' members of the tool hire fraternity will remember the flamboyant and sometimes delightfully eccentric David Kendrick - who we're sad to report has passed away.

David started Kendrick Hire Centres as a single outlet based in Ipswich, Suffolk. He grew the business into a fifty-depot organisation, renamed Kendrick Hire plc, with branches spread across England and South Wales. He sold the business to Speedy in 1993 and concentrated his efforts on managing his substantial property portfolio while overseeing the power generator manufacturer, Haverhill Generators.

Aside from his business achievements, David was an award-winning Bridge player, representing England in tournaments throughout the world. In his early days, he was also a talented cricketer.

Graham Crisp - who wrote this obituary - recalls a convivial lunch with David during the summer, where he talked about his illness and charmed all with his enduring optimism for a full recovery. Sadly, that turned out not to be the case. But, in the true spirit of his lifelong generosity, David settled the bill!