Dick Anderson dies

Well known tyre wholesale stalwart Dick Anderson died suddenly on Saturday 16 July. The news was confirmed by RH Claydon group business development manager, John Parker who wrote to Tyres Accessories: “It is with great sorrow that I must inform you of some sad news in that Dick Anderson unfortunately passed away.” Anderson, who retired just over a year ago, was apparently working alone in the garden at his old home in Welnetham when he suffered a massive heart attack.

According to John Parker, the family said the funeral is open to all Dick Anderson’s friends and colleagues alike and will take place on Thursday 28 July at 14:15 at Fenland Crematorium, Knights End Road, March, Cambridgeshire, PE15 0YJ. Flowers are requested to be sent by the family only. Donations can be made to MAGPAS and should be sent to Linda Anderson at 66 March Road, Wimblington, March, Cambridgeshire, PE15 0RW will ensure they are forwarded on.

Having met Dick near the beginning of my time at Tyres & Accessories more than seven years ago, I know I speak on behalf of everyone at the magazine when I convey our sympathies. He was always such a friendly, helpful and knowledgeable gentlemen and will be sadly missed. Following his death, one colleague told T&A: “the industry’s opinion on Dick is unanimous on this score and he will be sadly missed not only by his family and friends but really, everyone who knew him.”

After starting as a youngster in the tyre industry with North British Tyre & Rubber (latter to become Uniroyal Tyres) in Edinburgh in 1964, Anderson always said that he enjoyed his time “in a fascinating and now complex industry” and seen the many changes over the years. He retired on 30 June 2010 after some 46 years in the industry.

Speaking to Tyres & Accessories following his retirement, he demonstrated his character in a poignant vote of thanks to all those who supported him during his time in the business: “We will move from our present home…to spend time ‘smelling the roses’ and maybe improving my golf!