TREVOR Storer was founder and chairman of Meltham-based Disposables UK Group, one of the fastest-growing and most successful businesses in the washroom supplies industry.

In that role, he was responsible for introducing a number of ground-breaking products into the UK – most notably the Bay West range of washroom dispensers.

A salesman by nature and inclination, he was widely acknowledged to be an effective and enthusiastic communicator who was passionate about his company and the need to build long-term relationships with customers, both in the UK and more recently in Europe.

Independent-minded with considerable commercial nous, he was admired and respected by everyone around him.

Trevor William Storer, 56, of Holmfirth, was born in Oldham, Lancashire, in 1953. After an early career as a painter and decorator, he joined the wipers division of I & J Hyman plc as a salesman in 1977.

Promotion quickly followed and in 1985, then as sales director, he was part of a management buy-out which saw the creation of DTK Ltd.

In 1987, along with his wife Diane, he decided to go it alone and founded Disposables UK working from a small office in Milnsbridge.

The business has since grown into an award-winning group of companies handling some of the best known brands in the washroom supplies industry, including Bay West, Optimum Professional, Prodene Hygiene Products and Ettore. It is one of the biggest employers in the Huddersfield area.

Under his leadership, the Disposables UK Group was also the first company in the UK industry to hold the coveted EU Eco-label.

A committed Freemason, Mr Storer had two other passions. He was a life-long supporter of Oldham Athletic FC and – through Disposables UK – a loyal sponsor of Huddersfield Giants, sponsoring both the team shirts and coach Nathan Brown.

Away from the office he spent much of his time raising money for worthwhile organisations, particularly charities connected with children.

An accomplished after dinner speaker, he was much in demand as a master of ceremonies at charity events throughout West Yorkshire.

Over the years, he helped raise thousands of pounds for the West Yorkshire Forget Me Not Trust, the Hollybank Trust and Kirkwood Hospice.

At his funeral, attended by more than 600 mourners, Holme Silver Band – which is sponsored by the Disposables UK Group – played Hail Smiling Morn.

Those who knew Trevor Storer, himself an accomplished euphonium player, will think this a fitting tribute to a man who consistently brought a smile to everyone’s face through his engaging and charismatic personality and his infectious and irrepressible sense of humour.

Trevor Storer died suddenly after a short illness. He is survived by his wife, Diane, who now becomes company chairman, and his daughter Emma and son Paul.

The funeral was at St Bartholomew’s Church, Meltham.