Toy World is sad to announce the untimely passing of Craig Mair, a well known and much loved member of the UK toy trade.

Craig was well known throughout the toy industry, having spent most of his working life at The Lego Group, with subsequent periods at Wizards of the Coast, Funrise and Spin Master.

Former colleague at The Lego Group, Kerry Walgrove, has penned the following obituary:

Craig had a huge heart and deep sense of compassion for others. As a colleague he was reliable, fun, creative and an endless source of energy. He loved karaoke and could always be relied on for a better than average rendition of The Gambler.

Craig was a key member of the Lego UK team during strong years of growth for the company, and was instrumental in winning the Lego Group some highly coveted retailer awards, As a leader, he was an excellent coach and mentor, naturally empathetic and supportive. His tenacity and love for the brand played a huge part in many of those successes.

In his younger years, Craig was a keen sportsman. At Mark Warner holidays, he taught water sports. He loved cricket, but his first sporting love was hockey. He was an excellent skier and diver and an ardent supporter of England rugby, which offset a rather dubious affection for Tottenham Hotspur.

Craig was a natural host and an excellent BBQ chef. Having strong family ties with South Africa, he spent years perfecting his own biltong recipe. His family parties were legendary, with his extensive music collection and natural, overflowing generosity.

Sadly, earlier this year, Craig’s second son, Jonah, passed away, which devastated both him and his family. Craig leaves behind a wife and two sons from a previous marriage.

Craig has been taken too soon and there will be a hole in the lives of all who knew him. With aching hearts, we send our love and compassion to his family and friends in this time of grief.

Toy World would like to add its condolences to Craig’s friends and family at this sad time.