Mackenzie & Cruickshank Garden Centre in Forres, Scotland, has announced the sad passing of its owner and managing director Peter Wilson.

Peter’s son Ali said: “It is with great sadness that the Wilson and Mackenzie & Cruickshank family announce the passing of owner and managing director Peter Wilson.

“Peter faced his illness with dignity and bravery.

“M&C will remain open and we ask our customers for their love and understanding at this difficult time.”

Neil Gow met Peter when and wife Nicci visited the garden centre when judging the GTN Greatest Christmas Awards. Neil said: "An absolute gentleman, who always wanted to help. I was really impressed with his attitude to his staff team when we were there, pushing them forward and getting them to tell us what they were doing rather than him grabbing the limelight. He had a keen eye for detail, an essential quality of a good retailer and was a participating member of Choice Marketing. I know in the industry who dealt with him at the centre, he was very popular."

Funeral arrangements will be announced in due course.