THE co-founder of creative and marketing agency from Warrington has died.

Holdens has announced the sudden death of Peter Holden, aged 70, from natural causes on Saturday.

A spokesman for the company said: "We're very sad to announce the death of our co-founder and creative director Peter Holden.

"Peter was a much-loved and charismatic character in Manchester's creative community, bringing a smile to anyone that had the pleasure of meeting him.

"A real old school ad man, he was a tireless advocate of creative thinking and the pursuit of big ideas.

"He will leave a lasting legacy of brightness and positivity."

Over more than four decades, Peter produced award-winning campaigns and won the Cannes Lion award after he directed a TV commercial for Danish pharmaceutical company Natusan.

Armed with many years of experience, he joined forces with two of his sons – Ted and Olly – to set up creative agency Holden & Sons, now Holdens.

He worked closely with his sons to grow the agency and he was a very hands-on creative director up until the day he died.