THE DIRECTOR of A1 Autocentre in Bournemouth has died aged 62 after a battle with cancer.

Anthony Charles Everett, known to many as Tony, was a prominent member of the Bournemouth community.

Bournemouth Echo: Tony EverettTony Everett

His venture into the world of business began with A1 Windscreens and he went on to sponsor AFC Bournemouth from the late 1980s to the early 1990s, which involved working alongside Harry Redknapp.

Mr Redknapp opened Tony's A1 Autocentre car showroom in Withermoor Road, Winton, and his family have many pictures of the pair at A1 Windscreens.

Tony was the director of A1 Autocentre, which can now be found in Castle Lane West, for over 40 years and dedicated the majority of his life to the business and serving the local community.

But Tony's life was more than his successful business and involvement in the community.

His wife Toni said: "We were together for 24 years. We got engaged 23 years ago and only finally got married before Christmas with our children at Bournemouth registry office. We have four children together.

"Tony was very much family man and spent his life working hard running his business.

Bournemouth Echo: Remembering Tony Everett (right)Remembering Tony Everett (right)

"He was wonderful husband and doting father and he never ceased to impress us with his integrity, honesty and capability and he is respected by many.

"Tony was a kind man and mentored many and gave advice. He was a true gentleman and was adored. He had a fantastic sense of humour and was always cracking jokes. He worked hard to provide for his family and I was proud to be his wife.

"He was well thought of and known by many within the Bournemouth community.

"We welcome everyone to join us on Wednesday, August 18 at 10.30 am to celebrate his life at Harbour View Crematorium and Woodland Burial Ground Dorset. The funeral dress code is to wear something blue."

Tony died at home with his family following a battle with aggressive stage four bladder cancer.