Neil Hunter obituary

My partner, Neil Hunter, who has died aged 86, was a hotelier and restaurateur dedicated to helping others.

Born in Newcastle, he was the youngest of three children of Elsie (nee Stephens) and Richard, who owned a tobacconist’s business. Neil won a scholarship from Westgate Hill primary to Dame Allan’s school in the city. His father died when he was three and Neil was always grateful for the influential mentors and teachers at Dame Allan’s – and also for its excellent rugby programme.