The former president of York & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Digwood, has died.
City of York Council councillor Ashley Mason revealed the sad news on his Twitter feed.
“So sad to report the death of Andrew Digwood, a significant personality in York, former President of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, one of City of York Council’s climate commissioners, and my Under-Sheriff last year.
“His kind nature, counsel, humour and dedication to York will be a huge loss.”
Mr Digwood was a leading figure in York legal circles, a champion for city businesses, and most recently part of the civic party, as Under-Sheriff of York when Cllr Mason was Sheriff, from 2021-22.
In that role he represented the city at numerous events, from the Yorkraine fundraising concert, to the Assize of Ale, to British citizenship ceremonies.
He was elected president of the chamber in June 2019, having held the role of vice president.
Mr Digwood was a formidable advocate for businesses in York and North Yorkshire. His presidency included with the start of the Covid pandemic, and he was a strong voice for the needs of businesses during that challenging period.
He was still interim vice president when he died. Mr Digwood was also a member of the Company of Merchant Adventurers.
He was an associate director of SJP Law, where he specialised in commercial dispute resolution from their law office.
Originally from Accrington, he began his legal training in 1999 with an international law firm, working in their offices in Birmingham and Leeds.
In 2004 he moved to York, joining Rollits, where he became a partner, before moving to SJP Law.
He was a dedicated family man and a good friend to many people in the city.
Tonight, friends expressed shock at the news of his death.
His predecessor as chamber president, Bridget Meynell, said on Twitter: “Devastating news. Diggers was the best company and a true gentleman, what a huge loss to all who knew him.
“Deepest sympathy to his family.”
Phil Pinder, vice chair of York High Street Forum, said: “That’s awful to hear, thoughts with his family and friends.”
York Cllr Pete Kilbane said: “Such a huge loss. Fabulous fella. Very, very sad news.”
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