ONE of Dorset's best known businessmen and philanthropists has died aged 95.

Sam Emberton joint-founded Ace Office Supplies, Bournemouth, with late wife Jessie in 1963.

Sam never retired from business. As president of Ace now chaired by son in law David Carter, and run by grandson, Adrian Carter Sam made daily phone calls to his sales force.

He would offer them advice and encouragement, and was deeply respected by all his staff.

Sam was born in Stoke on Trent on February 12, 1911.

He remembered seeing a German Zeppelin during the First World War.

The aviators were both visible and audible during their unsuccessful bombing attempt.

Sam worked in London through the blitz where his shirt was literally blown off his back.

It was also in London where his daughter Angela was born. Sam would later name Ace after her initials, Angela C Emberton.

Sam and Jessie settled in Bournemouth where he managed Timpson's branch in the Square for many years before founding Ace.

Sam was a prominent local freemason, and a keen supporter of sport and young people.

Last year, he was one of the first businessmen in Bournemouth to back the Bournemouth & Poole College's Clock Tower Appeal.

A trust established in the name of his late wife annually awards scholarships to College students with special educational needs.

Sam was an active member of Dorset Business, of which Ace Office is a patron.

He regularly hosted a patron's table at major events, even up until last year.

Sam is survived by daughter, Angela Carter, grandchildren Adrian and Alison and great grandchildren, Luke and Daniel Walters and Jessica and James Carter.

Sam's funeral will take place on Monday August 7, 1.30pm at Wimborne Minster, followed by a private committal at Poole Crematorium.