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PEC Video MD dies in motorbike accident

Widely known and well-loved industry character and veteran Derek Morgan sadly passed away at the age of 53 from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident on the M1 motorway on Friday, 15 October 2010.

Widely known and well-loved industry character and veteran Derek Morgan sadly passed away at the age of 53 from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident on the M1 motorway on Friday, 15 October 2010. He is survived by his wife, Carole.

Derek was a highly skilled and very safe motorcycle rider, and a holder of an advanced driving licence.

The industry has been dealt a great loss with his passing. A genuine man, widely respected and deeply admired by his family, colleagues and friends in the industry, Derek will be sorely missed.

Derek worked at PEC Video in central London for eight years and prior to this was employed at JVC Professional and Bell & Howell for 13 years. His achievements and successes during a long career were truly great, as were the long-lasting friendships that he made.

Chris and Russell Lorne of PEC Video said: “Derek joined PEC Video in 2003 after a long and successful career and in 2005 he accepted our invitation to become managing director after Russell’s retirement. His steady and competent hand at the helm allowed the company to flourish and overcome many of the problems created by recent market difficulties. His colleagues will miss him greatly, not only for his expertise and extensive knowledge of the industry but also as a friend and a steady influence on the company.

“Our thoughts reach out at this time to his family, and especially to Carole.”

Bob Harris, a friend and former colleague at JVC, said: I was deeply saddened to learn of Derek’s passing. It was a total shock as I knew that Derek was a skilled biker of the highest order. Derek was a great guy, and I was honoured to have him as a friend. I will miss his sense of humour and his cheery, infectious smile. Derek and Carole made a great team, who made us feel very welcome during some of their home hosting nights, and were to be remembered fondly. Both my wife and I will sorely miss Derek.

From a dear pal, Nigel Cliff: “Derek, one of the nicest guys in the industry. A past colleague, then Boss, but most importantly of all, a good friend for over twenty years. To say I’m deeply shocked is an under-statement and my heart goes out to Carole and indeed all the Morgan family at this devastating time.”

John Carpenter, a former colleague at Bell & Howell and JVC, said: “Having worked alongside Derek for many years I built up a high regard for his technical and commercial knowledge of the industry. I am sure that this, together with the honest respect that he showed his customers, suppliers and workmates, contributed to the success that he enjoyed throughout his business career. I shall remember Derek as someone who had the rare ability to combine humility, a sense of humour and self-confidence that made you feel secure in his company.”

Brian Jackson of JVC Professional commented: “Derek was a huge part of our lives at Bell & Howell and JVC, and we currently work with his wife, Carole, so this devastating news has hit us all hard. Derek was a well-respected, trustworthy man, with so many friends in this industry; we just want to offer our sincere condolences to Carole, and both Derek and Carole’s families, at this difficult time.”

Those wishing to make contact with the family are advised to do so via e-mail.

All those that knew Derek are welcome to attend the funeral service, which is to be held at 12.30 on Wednesday 27 October 2010 at West Herts Crematorium, High Elms Lane, North Watford WD25 0JS. After the funeral, all are welcome for a final drink with Derek at The Ramada Jarvis, Hemel Hempstead, Hemel Hempstead Road, Redbourne AL3 7AF.

Those wishing to send flowers should please send them to the undertaker: Neville Funeral Service,75 The Marlows, Hemel Hempstead HP1 1LF.