Former Fyffes chief executive and chairman Neil McCann has passed away.

The board of the fruit importation company, together with Fyffes executives and staff, have extended their deepest sympathies to Mr McCann’s wife Mary, his six children and his wider family.

In a statement this morning, Fyffes described Mr McCann as the driving force behind the creation and development of the company. After joining the business in the early 1950s, he spearheaded its growth for more than five decades.

"He enjoyed huge respect in the industry and will be sorely missed by all who knew him for his extraordinary vision and leadership, his passion for the business and his generosity and fairness to all," it said.

Mr McCann retired from Fyffes in December 2005. His son David is the current chairman of the company, while his son Carl chairs Fyffes spin-off Total Produce.