THE former owner of H Hogarth Jewellers in Kendal has died at the age of 90.

Alan Robert Hogarth, born in Kendal, was the second generation of his family to run the business, which is now in the hands of son Graeme.

Educated at St Thomas’ Primary in Kendal and Heversham Grammar School, Mr Hogarth originally pursued a career in accountancy and banking.

His father Cyril died of a kidney complaint in 1942 at the age of just 40 leaving Mr Hogarth’s mother Hilda to run the jewellers until 1955, when failing health made her decide to sell.

Mr Hogarth, however, decided to leave what was considered a ‘job for life’ in banking to run the business, undertaking training as a jeweller and goldsmith.

He was to remain involved with H Hogarth Jewellers for the rest of his life - albeit from his armchair in later years.

He married Rita Dow in 1960 and soon after she joined her husband at the jewellers.

The couple travelled the world on jewellery retail study tours, visiting diamond mines in South Africa, opal mines in Australia and pearl farms in Japan, to name a few.

During his time in the trade, Mr Hogarth helped to found buying and marketing group the Company of Master Jewellers, serving as a director for 10 years and as chairman for four.

He took a keen interest in sport, being a Westmorland junior tennis champion and winning several cups as a badminton player. He also served as county chairman and treasurer of the Westmorland Badminton League and was a lifelong Preston North End supporter.

Mr Hogarth was an active member of community life, be it as president of Kendal Rotary Club or chairman of the Kendal Chamber of Trade.

Grandchildren Laura and Sam have fond memories of him, recalling their grandfather saying: “Be good, there isn’t many good ones left.”

Son Graeme said: “The family appreciate the many condolences received, all of which had a little story or anecdote about Alan, but the vast majority agreed on one thing: Alan was a true gentleman and was highly respected, he will be sadly missed.”