Derbyshire businesswoman found dead after being swept away by River Derwent

A prominent Derbyshire businesswoman has been named as the person who was swept away by the rain-swollen River Derwent in Rowsley on Friday.

The body of Annie Hall, the former High Sheriff of Derbyshire, who also ran Pickup Holdings with her husband Michael, was found two miles downstream in Darley Dale.

A statement from her family said: “It is with great sadness that we, the family of Annie Hall, report her sudden passing.

“We are in great shock and grieving. Please allow us to mourn privately for the time being.

“If you would like to contact us, please send any messages to condolencesforhallfamily@hotmail.com. We will publish details of the funeral arrangements when they are known.”

Hall was the first female president of the Derbyshire Chamber of Commerce, a founding member of the Training Enterprise Council, a non-executive director and vice-chairman of Derbyshire Mental Health Trust and a Foundation Derbyshire trustee.

Hall served as the county’s High Sheriff in 2017, and struck up a close bond with Derbyshire Police chief constable Peter Goodman during her tenure.

He said: “I am shocked and deeply saddened by the untimely and tragic death of my friend, and former High Sheriff, Annie Hall.

“Annie was a great leader in Derbyshire in both industry and on the civic front. She will be hugely missed.

“My deepest sympathies go to Michael and all the family at this time.”