The BVRLA has expressed its condolences over the passing of John Leigh and Peter Cooke, two stalwarts of the fleet industry.

John Leigh (left) and Peter Cooke were both stalwarts of the fleet industry

John Leigh passed away on Monday 7 November. He spent more than 40 years in the vehicle rental and leasing industry, starting at Godfrey Davis in the 1960s and including his role as chairman of Europcar. He served as chairman of the BVRLA from 2005 to 2007 as well as being a long-standing and active committee member.

Following his retirement in 2011 he served as a non-executive director of Nexus for two years. His most recent role was as director of the Trak Global Group, a leading telematics solutions company. He also served as vice president of BEN, the automotive industry charity.

He is survived by his wife Jenny and their two children Sammy and Simon.

Peter Cooke died on Thursday 3 November. He was Emeritus Professor of Automotive Management at the University of Buckingham Business School, and played a prominent role in the fleet industry, including contributing to numerous BVRLA events and activities over the years. He was recognised for his eminent work with an industry achievement award at the 2009 Fleet World Honours.

BVRLA chief executive Gerry Keaney said: “The BVRLA was deeply saddened to learn that John and Peter have passed away. Their huge contributions to the rental and leasing industry have been well publicised, and we are immensely grateful for the experience and enthusiasm they brought to the association. Both of them were larger-than-life characters who will be sorely missed. We send our heartfelt condolences to their families.”