Ex-boss of engineering firm dies, aged 72

William Dronsfield

THE last manager of one of Oldham’s great engineering companies has died at the age of 72.

William Dronsfield was the final member of his family to have been involved with Dronsfield Brothers, based in the town centre.

The father of five became managing director of the business, which specialised in making grinding machines, in the 1970s.

He succeeded his father, James, known as “Mr Jim” in the town.

The hard-working businessman met his wife Audrey, who also died earlier this year, and in 1979 moved from Blacko to Castleshaw, Delph.

Three years later the business, which was formed in 1860 and based at the Atlas Works, Crossbank Street, closed down and the couple took semi-retirement in the Isle of Man.

His daughter, Alison Ashworth, said: “He continued to work with his many contacts abroad and set up his own business, Link UK, which took him to South America frequently, relying on Audrey to run the office from the Isle of Man.

“Latterly they had enjoyed full retirement as grandfather and grandmother to their 16 grandchildren.”

Grandson William Blackburn said: “He was a much-loved grandfather, father and friend to all who knew him and he will be sorely missed.”

Mr Dronsfield died on Wednesday of a suspected heart attack at his holiday home in Harrogate.