Obituary: Clive Wooster – Toy World Journal | The enterprise journal with a ardour for toysToy World Journal

Toy World could be very unhappy to report that Clive Wooster handed away unexpectedly at house on Saturday, 18th Might, together with his beloved spouse Heather by his facet. 

Buddy and colleague, Nikki Jeffery, shared that Clive Ralph Wooster, who handed away on the age of 69, devoted his total profession to the toy business, starting at Fisher Value the place he spent a number of years honing his abilities – and gross sales patter. His profession noticed him taking up varied influential roles in gross sales. Within the 90s, Clive ran The First Years till RC2/Studying Curve acquired it in 2004, when he grew to become managing director. He continued to guide in periods of serious change and oversaw the European transition into Tomy when it acquired RC2 in 2011.

Clive later selected to hitch smaller, close-knit corporations, having fun with many fulfilling years as a rustic supervisor for Famosa and extra not too long ago, working with Geomagworld. In January this 12 months, he determined to step again to spend extra time together with his household and additional pursue his ardour for motor racing.

Properly-known throughout the business for his kindness, humour and limitless tales, Clive’s presence ensured that any room was crammed with laughter and dialog. He was approachable and all the time prepared to assist. Clive impressed many by his mentorship and fashioned sturdy relationships with colleagues throughout the businesses he labored for over time. Many from his First Years and RC2 days remained shut mates and can miss him dearly.

Clive additionally participated in quite a few charitable occasions each inside and out of doors the toy business. He was a eager walker and bicycle owner, taking up a number of business biking occasions throughout his time at RC2/Studying Curve. Simply final month, Clive walked 52 miles over two days to boost cash for Braintrust, a charity he usually supported. Donations in his reminiscence can nonetheless be made right here.

Exterior of his skilled life, Clive was obsessed with motorsport and soccer. He was an lively racer within the BARC Velocity Championship for effectively over 20 years and served as an teacher at Thruxton. A faithful Saints fan, he had eagerly anticipated watching them on the Championship play-offs at Wembley this coming Sunday. In honour of Clive, let’s all get behind Southampton FC this weekend.

Clive is survived by Heather, his much-loved spouse of 39 years, and his two daughters, Louise and Katie, whom he adored. He was overjoyed to rejoice Louise’s wedding ceremony in 2022 and was immensely happy with Katie for the unimaginable biking problem which noticed her sort out the Various Three Peaks on her mountain bike. His three women had been undoubtedly crucial folks in his life.

Clive will likely be remembered not just for his vital contributions to the toy business but additionally for his heat, generosity, and unwavering love for his household and mates. He will likely be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Roland Earl, director normal of the BTHA, commented: “The information of the passing of Clive has left all of us on the BTHA completely shocked and saddened. Clive was not solely an incredible contributor to the BTHA as a member of our PR and Public Affairs committee for a few years, however he additionally served as a member of the BTHA Council. Clive was a distinguished council member and an incredible contributor throughout the board on all issues for the good thing about the BTHA membership and wider toy business, that he beloved and served with such distinction. The information of his premature passing is tough to soak up for us, beloved as he was by us all. Our deepest condolences go to his household, mates and colleagues at this saddest of occasions. Clive was somebody who sought nothing for himself and put all his energies into supporting the business he spent his life working in – a real gentleman whose loss all of us really feel immensely.”

Toy World writer, John Baulch, added: “The entire Toy World crew was devastated to listen to of Clive’s premature demise – he was not solely a pleasure to work with, however I counted him as a great pal. Our ideas are with Heather and his daughters Louise and Katie.”

Particulars of Clive’s funeral will likely be shared sooner or later. Within the meantime, messages of condolence and reminiscences must be emailed on to clivewoosterrememberance@gmail.com. These will likely be collated and shared with the household instantly; please additionally share any pictures and movies.