A HULL businessman, deemed the saviour of the city's philharmonic orchestra, has died.
Tony Hickson, described by his colleagues as "the patron of music" and a "larger-than-life" character, died from pneumonia on July 21. He was 87.
Mr Hickson spent his career in the food industry and made his fortune after buying the Humber Pickles Company from his father.
He famously came to the rescue of the Hull Philharmonic Orchestra in the late 1980s.
Along with the orchestra's president at the time, Hilary Needler, Mr Hickson provided money for the Hull Philharmonic Trust, a registered charity that provides grants to young musicians and commissions new works.
Current president of the Hull Philharmonic Orchestra, Ian Wilson, said: "Tony was a driving force and always passionate about the success of the Philharmonic. His sharp business mind always kept me on my toes, and although our approach to how the society was managed often differed, I always felt I had his support.
"He was a true patron of the arts who came to the orchestra's rescue at its time of greatest need to ensure its financial survival."
Mr Hickson's involvement with the orchestra lasted for 40 years, during which time he held the posts of chairman and president and remained in office after moving to Canterbury to be closer to his family in early 2000.
He remained a benefactor of the orchestra, as well as making the long drive north for concerts until last year.
Upon moving to Canterbury, Mr Hickson became a member of the Canterbury Music Club and a familiar figure in the centre of his adopted city – riding on his mobility scooter with his Great Dane, Daisy, by his side.
His step-daughter, Suzette Booth, who lives in Faversham, said: "Dad was a great character – there's no doubt about that. He was a huge supporter of the Hull Philharmonic and loved playing the piano.
"Showing his sense of humour, he was a great fan of Spike Milligan."
Mr Hickson leaves behind four children.
A memorial service will take place at Canterbury Baptist Church, St George's Place, on Monday at 2.30pm.
A request has been made for family flowers only. However, donations to either the Hull Philharmonic Orchestra or to Canterbury Music Club, in Mr Hickson's name, would be gratefully accepted.
