Tributes paid as well-known lawyer and former Chamber of Commerce president dies

Tributes have been paid following the death of a champion of York business and a well-known city lawyer.

The former president and current vice president of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Digwood, has died aged just 46.

A statement from the Chamber of Commerce said: “As a former president of York & North Yorkshire Chamber and board member of the wider chamber network, Andrew was a passionate and relentless champion of Yorkshire and was a huge presence in the region.

“Everyone who knew him regarded him as a genuine, thoughtful and highly intelligent leader. His love for York and Yorkshire was palpable.

“The region’s business community will be united in its shock and sadness at his untimely passing.

“His legacy will be one of integrity, achievement and bravery.”

As an accomplished and well-respected lawyer, Digwood worked at Rollits and as an associate director based in SJP Law’s York office, specialising in commercial dispute resolution.

He began his legal training in 1999 with an international law firm in various posts around the country.

In 2004 he moved to York where he played an incalculable role in working for the betterment of the city and county’s businesses, communities and environment.

Until his death he continued to serve York & North Yorkshire Chamber as a past president, playing a crucial role in policy making and campaigning. In addition to these duties, he also served as a climate commissioner for City of York Council and as an Under Sheriff for the county.

The statement added: “West & North Yorkshire Chamber joins with the whole region in mourning his loss and extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to his wife and children, whom he loved above all else.

“His passing leaves a hole that can never be filled.”

Laurence Beardmore, president of York & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “I met Andrew through the Chamber a number of years ago and was instantly struck by his winning smile, positivity and determination to serve the economy and social wellbeing of our region.

“He always managed to see the upside in the most difficult of situations and never wrote off an individual or institution no matter how they behaved. He had a natural charisma that enthused all those around him and a sharp intellect to back his views, though he always listened to and respected other opinions.

“I have met many great people in my time, but none as well loved and respected as Andrew. Above all, he was my friend.”

Amanda Beresford, chair of West & North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Andrew was a wonderful colleague and friend who contributed so much to our region.

“He could always be relied upon for wise counsel, supportive words and passionate advocacy for Yorkshire.

“While we are deeply saddened by his loss, we are also grateful for the time we spent in his company.

“His legacy will be felt by all.”