ALBERT Norton, former deputy chairman of the Rowntree Group, has died, aged 88.

He was born at Ackworth, near Pontefract, and read chemistry at University College, Oxford.

In 1938 Mr Norton joined Rowntree in the research and development laboratories at York and rose rapidly into higher management positions.

From 1962 to 1973 he was chairman of the York business, responsible for branded confectionery operations in the UK including major products such as Kit Kat, Black Magic, Aero, Smarties, After Eight and Polo. In 1969, Quality Street, Rolo and other Mackintosh brands joined the portfolio with the merger that created Rowntree Mackintosh.

In 1966, Mr Norton became deputy chairman of the Rowntree Group, a post he held until his retirement in 1978, after more than 40 years' service.

Throughout his career, he was involved in matters affecting the food industry, food research, and relations with Government and the European Union. He took part in the long negotiations about the EU definition of chocolate and helped bodies including the Food and Drink Industries Council and the Central Council for Agricultural and Horticultural Co-operation. From 1973 to 1976 he was president of the Chocolate Alliance. He was awarded the CBE in 1976 for services to the company and the UK food industry.

In his retirement he helped run his daughter and son-in-law's farm near Haxby.

Mr Norton was director of the York Waterworks Company for 25 years and chairman of the board from 1975 to 1992. He served for many years on the Council and Court of the University of York. He was Master of the York Merchant Taylors' Company in 1980-81. Mr Norton is survived by his widow, Peggie, two daughters and two grandchildren.

Sir Donald Barron, former chairman of the Rowntree Group, said: "Albert Norton was an outstanding leader in the Rowntree company and in the UK confectionery industry.

"His contribution to the invention and development of the well-known Rowntree brands was invaluable - he will be remembered with respect and affection by all those who worked with him."

Updated: 10:32 Wednesday, April 28, 2004