It is with deep regret that the death of Robin Burgess, the former chief executive of CN Group, is announced.

He died, aged 68, at his home yesterday (Friday), in Scaleby, Cumbria, from cancer.

Robin leaves a wife Alex and four children, Rose, Kate, Rachel and James.

Robin was the fourth generation of his family to have run the Carlisle-based media group.

It was sold to Newsquest last year.

A family spokesman said: "Robin was a very good, decent and kind man, aware of his responsibilities to his community and all around him. He loved his family, his county and his newspapers. We shall miss him."

Jonathan Lee, managing director of Newsquest Cumbria, said: "This is such sad news. Robin was a true gentleman, highly respected across the industry and across the community. He was passionate about making sure the media served its community, always taking a keen interest in everyone he met. He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him. All our thoughts are with Alex and the family."

A private funeral will be held in Scaleby.

A memorial service will be held later in Carlisle.