Tributes paid to Fort Vale chairman

Tributes have been paid to the founder and chairman of Fort Vale Engineering.

Edward Sagar Fort, OBE, affectionately known as “Ted” was born in Lancashire in 1937, and founded Fort Vale in 1967 and built it into a globally respected engineering business.

From its headquarters and main manufacturing facility at Calder Vale Park in Simonstone, the company manufactures precision valves and fittings for the safe transport of bulk liquids worldwide.

Under Ted’s leadership, Fort Vale received some of the United Kingdom’s highest business honours, including multiple Queen’s Awards for Enterprise and the King’s Award for Enterprise, recognising outstanding achievement in international trade and innovation.

In a statement by Fort Vale, Ted was described as a 'courageous and decisive leader who believed in action over words'.

"He set high standards, encouraged initiative and created hundreds of skilled employment opportunities across Lancashire and beyond.

"He cared deeply about quality, reputation and the people within the business, always challenging those around him to think bigger and do better.

"Ted’s entrepreneurial vision extended to nurturing subsidiary companies, turning potential into thriving, independent businesses.

"Under his guidance, Riggs Autopack and Francis Searchlights strengthened their market positions, equipped with the confidence to succeed."

Beyond industry, Ted was a committed philanthropist. Through the Fort Foundation, he supported education, project development and local community initiatives, taking a personal interest in the individuals whose lives were positively impacted.

Current group managing director Ian Wilson paid tribute to his long-standing business partner.

He said: “Ted was a remarkable man, bold, determined and completely committed to the business he built from the ground up.

"He had an instinct for opportunity and the courage to act on it. Working alongside him for so many years was both a privilege and an education.

"His belief in people, in Lancashire, and in what this company could achieve never wavered. Fort Vale stands today as a testament to his vision and perseverance.”