Nigel Dalton, director of AL Dalton Ltd, has died at the age of 62 after a long illness.

Well known in the woodworking machinery sector, he and his brother Francis were the third generation to enter the family business in Nottingham.

Nigel joined the company over 45 years ago, having first realised an early ambition by working on steam trains at British Rail’s Nottingham depot, including the famous “Royal Scot” which led to a lifelong interest in steam.

Very much a family man, he leaves a wife and three children. His eldest son, Alex, has become the fourth generation of the family to enter the business and is now a director. His other son is with the BBC and his daughter is studying at Leeds University. Nigel was very proud of his family and split his time and interests firmly between his family and the family business.

As director and joint owner of Daltons with involvement in all aspects from sales to service, he was, when necessary, a hands on, practical person who took a special pride in ensuring that the company offered the best in aftercare, transport, machine moving and installation.

Nigel Dalton will be much missed both within Daltons and the wider woodworking machinery community.