Kevin Farrell - a sad loss for North Staffordshire

It was with immense sadness I learned of Kevin Farrell's death. As chief executive of the British Ceramic Confederation he was a tireless voice for the sector for 25 years.

He served on the North Staffordshire Chamber of Commerce's commission, and latterly he was on its board.

He was a great champion, not only of the ceramics industry, but also for North Staffordshire generally. He was born and bred North Staffordshire and he returned here to his roots 25 years ago and he was a great advocate of the Potteries both nationally and internationally.

As well as his contribution to the ceramic industry, one of his greatest achievements was helping to lead Stoke-on-Trent College out of some very desperate times in the early 1990s.

He will be sorely missed by his many friends and colleagues who have worked closely with him over the years.