Peter “Slim” Williamson 1950-2009

The drinks trade was shocked last week by the sudden death of Peter Williamson, chairman of Inspirit Brands, at the age of 59. 

Williamson – known to friends and colleagues as “Slim” – collapsed and died on Sunday 10 May while playing for his local cricket club.

He was born on 14 February 1950 in Guildford and fell into the drinks trade somewhat accidentally after applying to fill the role of Father Christmas at Harvey’s of Guildford. He was told by the store that he was too young, but was offered a position in the store’s wine department. The rest is history.

In his long and distinguished career, Slim worked for several big companies including a spell at Deinhard before joining Hedges and Butler in 1970.

Here he developed his considerable abilities, ending up as Director of National Accounts before leaving to help set up Paragon Vintners during 1989 and furthering his career there as Sales Director.

On leaving Paragon in 2008, he enjoyed a long summer holiday before taking up the chairmanship of Inspirit Brands along with private consultancy work.

He is survived by his wife Carol and three children, Lucy, James and William.

Alan Lodge, 18.05.2009