Doug Shopland, former managing director and chairman of Stenner Ltd, died on August 17 after a short illness. He was 62.

Mr Shopland was well known to the sawmill industry worldwide with his gregarious personality and razor sharp wit, not to mention his substantial frame.

He will be remembered for transforming Stenner from an old-fashioned British engineering company to the lean, dynamic organisation of today.

As former chairman of both the Woodworking Machinery Suppliers Association and Devon Air Ambulance Trust, Mr Shopland contributed to the substantial growth and success of both organisations.

His hobbies included fine food and wine, golf, rugby, horse racing and anything to do with motor cars.

He is survived by wife June, daughter Victoria, son Ian and three grandsons.