Tributes have been paid to a "true gentleman" of the business world, who is credited with saving Hounslow Chamber of Commerce from extinction.

Les Robinson, who died on January 19, aged 84, was president of the organisation, which represents businesses across the borough , in 1994 and then from 1997-2004.

The chamber's chief operating officer Sally Smith, who worked with him, said without him it may not have survived those "challenging times".

As well as supporting established businesses during his time in the hot seat, he played a key role in encouraging young entrepreneurs.

That included working with Garth Buckle, of Hounslow Education Business Partnership, to set up the Partnership Challenge - a competition promoting and celebrating links between schools and local firms, which is still going strong.

Ms Smith said: "Without Les, the chamber could well have ceased to exist. He was a true gentleman, quietly spoken but commanding respect.

"He worked tirelessly on behalf of Hounslow Chamber. The committee meetings held at his house, with refreshments supplied by his wife, Paulette, were legendary. He will be missed."

As well as helping Hounslow Chamber of Commerce navigate tricky waters, he teamed up with other chambers in 1995 to form the West London Chamber of Commerce, which merged in 2000 with West London Inward to form West London Business (WLB). He was a WLB board member for a number of years.

Mr Robinson, who lived in Heston , began his career as a draughtsman and rose to the rank of management consultant, overseeing major building projects.

Away from the workplace, his daughter Sally Lupton said he and his wife were keen amateur actors and had once appeared at Richmond's Orange Tree Theatre together.

"He was a great dad. He was very kind and caring and always had time for people," said Ms Lupton.

Mr Robinson is survived by his wife and his two children and four grandchildren.

His funeral will take place on Friday (February 5). For details call Lodge Brothers in Ashford on 01784 252226.