It is with deep sadness we announce that container glass industry consultant Peter Firth has passed away.

As well as dedicating more than 40 years to the glass industry he became a notable writer and social media influencer, bringing the glass community together on Linked In with his discussions about the sector.

Peter, 61, began his career in the industry in September 1981 as an electrical apprentice at the former Redfearn National Glass facility in Barnsley, UK.

As an undergraduate he worked at the glass plant during holidays and for a 15-month period between academic year 2 and the final year, 3.

After graduation he had a four-year stint with Beatson Clark in Rotherham UK as an Electronics Engineer.

He spent the majority of his working life with Ardagh Glass at its Knottingley facility, which he joined in 1999.

He worked in roles such as Operations Manager, Plant Director and Director of Technical Services, which included a short period in the Ardagh Moerdijk facility, The Netherlands.

Shortly after leaving Ardagh, he formed his own company, Glass Container Manufacturing Consulting, in April 2020, which provided help to clients requiring expert input on glass container related issues.

His role was varied, writing articles on behalf of clients for publications such as Glass International, as well as providing technical expertise to organisations such as Glass Futures in the UK as it successfully pioneered a new research furnace.

Alongside this he became well known on social media, regularly discussing glass-related issues as well as creating a job vacancy group for the industry.

He was often seen at industry events, speaking at conferences and roving around the exhibition hall to interview visitors and exhibitors.

He passed away in the early hours of Saturday morning, April 11, after a short illness. He is survived by two children.

Glass International's thoughts are with Peter's family at this difficult time.