Death of Bawtry businessman and charity fundraiser

A POPULAR business owner who helped raise hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity will be laid to rest on Friday (March 9).

Tony Robinson (66), who lived in Bawtry, started the designer fashion boutique Robinsons in the town more than three decades ago.

Mr Robinson died surrounded by his family on Monday, February 19, and his funeral service will take place at St Nicholas’ Parish Church, Bawtry, on Friday at 1pm.

This will be followed by a celebration of his life at Ye Olde Bell Hotel, Barnby Moor.

Mr Robinson began the Robinsons’ annual fashion show to raise cash in memory of his first wife who died from cancer. The event has raised £350,000 since its inception more than a quarter of a century ago.

Friend and current owner of Robinsons of Bawtry, Russell Jones, said: “It is with much sadness that we had to say our goodbyes to Tony, many years earlier than anyone hoped.

“It has always been, and will remain, an honour to carry on the legacy of his store and also the amazing fundraising work that he has done over the years through the Robinsons charity fashion show that he established.”

Friend Andy Longworth said: “Tony was a true friend; a gentleman who had a fantastic sense of humour and a zest for life.

“It is an incredibly sad time and I shall miss him but will always look back fondly on the good times we had.”