TRIBUTES An inspiring boss and family man

A SUCCESSFUL businessman who employed hundreds of people has been celebrated as an inspiring boss and family man.

The life of Neville Allport OBE has been remembered following his death on February 8 at the age of 78.

Born in Northwich, the father of three started his working life as a police constable for the Metropolitan Police after training at the Police College in Hendon.

Making the move to Cardiff in 1982, Mr Allport later changed his career to become involved in financial insurance – a decision which would see him become a leading figure in the industry.

After being repeatedly head-hunted by American companies, the businessman first worked for firms including Avco Financial Services and Chartered Trust before setting up a series of his own successful businesses.

Not one to rest on his laurels, when his first company Firstplus was sold to Barclays, Mr Allport went on to set up his second company Picture Financial just a year later.

Known for his “work hard, play hard culture” in the office, his employees will remember him as a “unique, ambitious and formidable” figure who could always get the best from his staff.

Speaking about his success, Mr Allport always maintained a firm belief in the ability of his workforce.

Speaking to the Western Mail in 2007, he said: “They do all the work and at the end of the day all you are doing is representing a business where you manage people.

“Without them you are dead, no matter what you do.”

In 2006 Mr Allport was recognised for his contribution to the financial sector with an OBE presented by Neath MP Peter Hain.

Meanwhile, outside the office his ambition and talent was equally clear in his efforts as a successful athlete.

Turning down the opportunity to play professionally for Wolverhampton Wanderers FC, Mr Allport maintained a love of football throughout his life and was an A Standard rugby referee.

A keen golfer, Mr Allport became a loyal member of Radyr and Llanishen golf clubs with a handicap of four at his best.

Paying tribute, his daughter Kate described her father as a “great man”.

She said: “He was a challenging man but a great man. He always wanted the best from you and expected you to give your all.”

Mr Allport will be fondly missed by his wife Angela, daughters Kate, Joanne and Kelly and grandchildren Olivia, John, Thea and Neave.