Friends spoke of "the modest, unassuming" Lord Montague who kept himself to himself.

Edward Reily-Collins, managing director of Hallidays Carved Pine, in Dorchester, said the 67-year-old bachelor, who had lived in the village for 20 years, would be deeply missed.

He said: "It is unbelievable that he has died. He was a very energetic man and led a healthy and active life. He never stopped.

"He was always very sociable, had lots of friends, and will be missed."

He added: "He was delighted to have been elevated to the Lords.

"But despite being a successful businessman, he never gave the impression that he was wealthy.

"He was very modest and un-assuming, considering his position." Lord Montague founded his own electrical firm, Gatehill Beco Ltd at the age of 21. It was bought out a year later by the Valor company called Valor after his first million-dollar order from the USA, and he became Valor's chairman.

As a young man, he travelled the world selling British products, anything from nuts and bolts to aeroplanes. His motto used to be that for air journeys of under five hours he would travel economy class, anything more, first class.

Once he said: "The British salesman should get out there and shout as loud as he can that he has a good product to sell. If he has confidence the orders will come."

Lord Montague liked to support was a great charities, supporter of local charity, particularly the NSPCC. He also helped sponsor the Oxfordshire Festival. The Rev Canon John Crowe, Rector of Dorchester Abbey, said: "We are very shocked to hear of his sudden death. I am sure he will be missed by those

who knew him."

One villager, who asked to remain anonymous, said: "Lord Montague was a charming man who seemed to keep himself to himself. He was very normal and

down to earth and I am sure he will be missed."

Story date: Saturday 06 November

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