A 'towering figure' in British menswear has died.

Derek Rose have announced the death of founder and chairman, Derek Peter Rose.

He passed away on Friday, August 29, surrounded by his family.

A spokesperson for the company, whose manufacturing base is in Congleton, said: "The Rose family and the Derek Rose team are committed to honouring Derek's legacy. 

"We will continue to uphold the values he lived by – quality without compromise, respect for craft, and a genuine care for the people who make and wear our garments."

Derek Peter Rose (Credit: Derek Rose)

Derek took the helm of the business from his father in the 1950s and guided it to international recognition.

He was an early champion of British manufacturing and craftsmanship, and his dedication helped the brand win the Queen's Award for Export on two separate occasions. 

In 1966 he was elected chair of the British Menswear Guild, an honour that saw him escorting Her Majesty the Queen at the International Menswear Exhibition and representing British fashion at delegations around the world.

The Derek Rose spokesperson added: "Those achievements are only part of his story.

"Derek loved the clothing trade—not just the business itself, but the people and the products. 

"He delighted in working with mills, manufacturers, agents and retailers to produce the garments that defined the brand. 

"His global vision and insistence on quality led to a loyal clientele in more than fifty countries, yet he remained most proud of the relationships he built with our suppliers and customers."

They added: "At a personal level, Derek was a mentor, a gentleman and a friend.

"He believed in beautiful design and that success is only meaningful when shared with others. 

"We will miss his warmth, his humour and his unwavering support."