Tributes to Mr Watson, pictured, were paid today from across the paper industry.
BRPA president Ron Humphries said: “This is very sad news and is a great loss to the industry. I personally knew Ray well as chief executive and have also know him for about 15 years. It will be a sad loss for the industry on both a personal and professional level. On behalf of the membership of the BRPA I extend our condolences to his family.”
Peter McGuinness, immediate past-president of the association, said: “Having worked in the industry for many years, Ray was well respected and well liked. In his business and personal life he acted with honour. Having worked for BPB for a number of years he successfully moved into association work and was instrumental in developing the role of the BRPA. I know he was looking forward to developing the association further. He will be sorely missed.”
David Symmers, chief executive of the Independent Waste Paper Processors Association, said: “His death is an incredible loss to the industry. He was a very genuine person and understood well the balance between the mill owned industry and the independents. His hard work and dedication was part of the reason for the improved relations between the BRPA and the IWPPA.”
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced. Ray Watson leaves a wife Kim and two sons.
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