PETER LYON TAYLOR 24TH DECEMBER 1953 TO 13TH APRIL 2024
Peter Taylor was the senior Partner of AST Hampsons LLP until he died earlier this year and was the fourth generation in the Taylor family to be a Solicitor and Partner in Rochdale’s longest established legal firm.
Having dealt with most areas of law during his career, Peter was able to specialise in recent years in commercial and corporate work gaining a significant following and a high degree of respect for the quality of the work he carried out. He was well known for the care and attention to detail he showed to his clients, always taking an interest in their businesses and ensuring that the advice was specific for their individual circumstances.
Many of his clients relied on his advice and he became a vital part of the team needed to run their business. Many of these clients also over the years became good friends of his.
Peter was the heart of AST Hampsons and a mentor and friend to many of the other partners and staff who also held him in high regard. He cared deeply about the firm and its staff. He also navigated the firm from the older generation to the new and ensured that there was a succession plan to ensure the continuing success of the business, which would be his legacy.
Having always lived and worked in Rochdale, Peter was passionate about Rochdale and local businesses, and he was on the Board of the Rochdale Business Improvement District.
Peter leaves behind his beloved wife Viv, who he married in 1979, and son James who continues in his father’s footsteps as a Partner of AST Hampsons.
Away from work, Peter had many hobbies and interests. He was extremely musical with the piano being a constant throughout his life. He wrote and recorded several songs and he was a member of Saddleworth Mail Voice Choir. He loved cars and owned a classic 1972 Triumph TR6 and was a member of the Triumph Red Rose Club . He also loved gardening and put a lot of hard work into making sure that he always had a well kept and colourful garden in all seasons.
During his final few months, Peter spent several periods at Springhill Hospice. He initially spent time there to monitor pain relief and get him back on his feet to enjoy some quality of life in his final months. He was always happy and comfortable there and hugely grateful for the support and kindness of the staff and, as a result, it was his wish to spend his final few days there. He was transferred to Springhill Hospice again a week before he died. Peter’s family cannot thank the Hospice enough for the support & kindness they showed to both Peter and to them in this final week. Viv and James stayed in the family room in Peter’s final days and were well looked after in what was a very difficult time. The environment of the hospice is unique. It is so calm, positive and supportive for all involved and everyone involved should be so proud of what they have created.