ADCAS president Malcolm Moss has announced, "with deep regret", the passing of Bill Smith, former managing director and founder of Sutton, Surrey-based R P Metal Company, who was a key player in formation of the ductwork trade association. He was just 63.

Mr Smith served on the executive committee, guiding ADCAS through the early days after its formation in 1996. According to Mr Moss: "Without the wholehearted support of Bill and the other original Executive members, ADCAS would not be in the strong position that it is today."

Mr Smith retired from the Executive in 2004 when his son, Paul, assumed the role while also following his father's footsteps at R P Metal.

"While still keeping an eye on the business", said Mr Moss, "Bill spent most of his time in the latter years living in Spain, but he remained a stalwart of ADCAS, giving his support to the aspirations of the organisation for the benefit of the ductwork industry.

"Bill was a true gentleman and will be sadly missed by all who came in contact with him and our thoughts and best wishes are with his wife, Jacqueline Smith, Paul and his family at this very sad time."