Co-founder of British engineering giant Renishaw, Sir David McMurtry, dies aged 84

The billionaire co-founder of the British engineering company Renishaw has died.

Sir David McMurtry, who set up the group in 1973, was 84 years old.

The Irish-born businessman, who lived in Gloucestershire, retired as chief executive in June this year but remained on the board as a non-executive director.

Acting chairman Sir David Grant said yesterday: ‘David was an exceptionally talented engineer and his curiosity and drive helped create a globally respected engineering company.

His legacy will live on through the culture of innovation he helped create at Renishaw.

The board’s deepest condolences are with David’s wife and family.’

Renishaw supplies high-tech laser components used in drones and autonomous vehicles, as well as 3D printers that can make medical implants and dentures.

McMurtry, who was awarded a CBE for his contributions to British science and technology in 1994, invented more than 150 of the FTSE 250 company’s products.

He was also involved in 47 patents at engineering giant Rolls-Royce, where he worked before helping to set up Renishaw with co-founder John Deer.

The founders still own more than half of the company. McMurtry is survived by his wife and three children.