BHETA director Peter Stone pays tribute to Mr Hobden, who passed away last week.
Today, with deep regret, BHETA announced the passing of Edmond Hobden, managing director of Flock Developments, who died a few days ago after a long battle with illness.

DIY sector director Peter Stone said of the news: "Mr Hobden was a great supporter of BHETA and had regularly expressed his pleasure at the progress being made in recent times. He had been a member for many years and attributed much of his success overseas to his early involvement in export missions organised by the association. He was also an extraordinarily strong character who will be sadly missed by all in the trade who knew him.

Mr Hobden's funeral service will be held at 2pm on Friday, November 11, at the Albion United Reformed Church, Stamford Street East, Ashton-under-Lyne OL6 6QQ. This will be followed by a cremation service at Dukinfield Crematorium for family and close friends.

Family flowers only, but donations are most welcome to The Willow Wood Hospice and should be sent to the funeral directors Jeremy Unsworth Funeral Services, 67 Church Road, New Mills, High Peak, Derbyshire, SK22 4NU.