Insider Media Limited

West Midlands industrialist David Grove has died unexpectedly at the age of 63. The chairman of Warwickshire's Grove Industries leaves behind his wife Jane and two sons from a previous marriage, Jonathon and Simon.

Grove was renowned for acquiring and turning around engineering businesses, including Key Technologies which was one of several companies listed on local stock exchange InvestBX.

Friend Edward Carter, who knew Grove for 40 years, said he remembered the "fantastic bond" the industrialist had with the management teams of companies he took under his wing. He added he would be "very sadly missed".

Grove, who received an OBE in 2009 for services to business, was also serving as High Sheriff at the time of his death.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Group president Michael Ward said: "We have lost one of our great industrial heroes. Hefamously led Hill and Smith to great success both in the UK and globally and his passing is a great loss to UK business.

"He has similarly led all the individual manufacturing businesses that operate under the banner of Grove Industries to leadership in their sectors.

"David’s passing leaves a massive gap. His passion for manufacturing and his conviction about the rising potential of Midlands manufacturers was infectious. He leaves a legacy of achievement that Midlands manufacturers will benefit from for decades."

Jerry Blackett, chief executive of the Birmingham Chamber Group, said: "David’s passion was his belief in the potential for local manufacturing businesses to never stop improving their productivity while at the same time improving quality.

"His watchword was innovation and he was inspirational to Midlands manufacturers. David also believed he should put back as much as possible to the Midlands community.

"I remember him telling me a year or so ago that he was a lucky man. His businesses were successful and he felt it only right he should use some of his money to help the region. David had a great affection for the work of Birmingham Chamber and had invested in being a Patron of the Chamber for many years. He wanted nothing in return."