Maurice Marshal, MBE and co-founder of Stage Electrics has died following a courageous battle to fight cancer at the age of 76.

A lifelong passion for the technical side of theatre saw Maurice pursue a dual career as a partner in Stage Electrics and also as chief electrician at the Northcott Theatre in Exeter, where he launched the careers of a number of the country's top stage lighting designers and technicians. His services to drama and his commitment to training in theatre resulted in him being awarded an MBE in 2009.

Maurice co-found Stage Electrics with David Whitehead in 1979, a company which has grown into an internationally trading business with a turnover of £27.5 million. Recently, with the onset of illness, Maurice has helped cement the current management structure to ensure that the company continues to thrive without his guidance.

His long-time business partner David Whitehead said: "Maurice was a private man with strong beliefs and principles who stuck with them throughout his life. He had a talent for developing individuals and would go out of his way to help others. He remained actively involved in Stage Electrics right up until the time of his death."

The Funeral

Maurice Marshal was laid to rest on Tuesday 20th July 2010 at St. Saviours in Bristol. After a Latin mass in the Friary Chapel, Maurice was buried in the small peaceful cemetery within the Friary walls.

Friends, former Bro's from the Northcott, colleagues at Stage Electrics and figures from every area of the entertainment industry gathered to pay their respects and to send him on his next journey.

For those of you who were unable to attend the funeral we thought you would appreciate some informal pictures of the many mourners who attended. The sad occasion was marked by many happy memories and stories about Maurice which he would have loved.