Mr Townsend was the eighth person in BESA history to be awarded its Distinguished Service Award for individuals “who have rendered extra-special service to the Association and its activities” – effectively joining the BESA ‘Hall of Fame’.

Regarded by BESA to be one of its most popular and influential figures, Mr Townsend was president during the company's centenary year in 2004. Having first been elected to council in 1992, he continued to serve until 2015.

He was chair of the membership committee and of the North West region. Mr Townsend also served on the finance, audit and staff standing committees and was director of the training provider Building Engineering Services Training (BEST) as well as the chair of the Commissioning Specialists Association (CSA).

He founded the commissioning specialist contractor End Systems in 1976 and the company continues to grow and thrive today under the directorship of his daughter.

End Systems  was the launch pad for many distinguished commissioning careers and Mr Townsend was regarded as one of the sector’s great leaders and mentors.

Current BESA president John Norfolk, said: “Brian was a champion of the industry and a true gentleman who will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and sincere condolences go out to his family at this very sad and difficult time.”

A statement from End Systems added: “On Sunday we lost a titan of the industry, a beloved husband, father, grandad and great grandad. The loss is immeasurable.”