Former drinks chief Tim Tate-Smith dies at 78 (From Gazette & Herald)

Former drinks chief Tim Tate-Smith dies at 78

8:10am Friday 5th February 2010

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ONE of the region’s best known and respected businessmen, Tim Tate-Smith, has died at the age of 78.

He was the fourth generation of his family to be involved in the Tate-Smith drinks business, founded in 1888 by his great grand-father.

His son, Paul, said his father had played a key part in the business since he was 16, and still retained a keen and active interest up to his death.

He said: “He was a very successful businessman and, from the many emails and cards we have received, he was also much respected as a gentleman and a businessman. He will be missed by very many people.”

Mr Tate-Smith, who served his National Service in Hong Kong, where he made many friends, joined his father, Tom, in the drinks business as a 16-year-old in 1947. He expanded it over the years, enabling it to become a limited company in 1960, later launching its products under the Sundella label.

The business moved to Sheepfoot Hill, Malton, where its range of drinks and beers increased, and despite growing competition from supermarkets, continued to expand, with Mr Tate-Smith working with Paul.

“The business was his life,” Paul said.

In addition to being a successful business leader, Mr Tate-Smith was involved in voluntary and charity work. He and friends built a much-needed scout hut, which is still in use in Wentworth Street car park, by utilising two former holiday chalets from Scarborough. He was a founder member of Malton and Norton Round Table, and later of the towns’ Rotary Club.

The funeral service is due to be held on Monday at St Peter’s Church, Norton, followed by private cremation at the East Riding Crematorium at Octon.

His family have asked that donations be made to St Catherine’s Hospice and St Peter’s Church, in his memory, in lieu of funeral flowers. Mr Tate-Smith leaves his widow, Conny, children, Juliette, Paul, Mark and Tess, and ten grandchildren.

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