Sir Brandon Gough, who was closely associated with many initiatives for the good of Kent, has died suddenly. He was 74.

Among many distinguished roles, Sir Brandon was a Kent Ambassador, a Deputy Lieutenant, chairman of Locate in Kent, chairman of Leeds Castle Foundation, and a trustee of Canterbury Cathedral.

A chartered accountant, he had held senior positions with Coopers and Lybrand, Yorkshire Water and the Higher Education Funding Council for England.

Lord De L'Isle, Lord Lieutenant of Kent, said: "Brandon Gough had a distinguished business career as an accountant, but he will best be remembered in Kent for the myriad of organisations he either led, or for which he was a Trustee.

"I know from personal experience as a fellow Trustee of Canterbury Cathedral, his knowledge and experience brought the advice of a wise accountant, always given with a twinkle in his eye, and a smile.

"Brandon was a Deputy Lieutenant of Kent and would have retired later this year on his 75 birthday.

"He will be sorely missed by us all, and our thoughts are very much with Sarah and their children."

Victoria Wallace, chief executive of Leeds Castle, said: "It was with shock and great sadness that we learned this morning of the sudden death of Sir Brandon Gough, chairman of the Leeds Castle Foundation.

"Brandon joined the board in 2006, taking the chair in 2007. He led the Foundation though a period of significant change and growth, and was a massive strength and support to the staff and management of the castle, and a much respected and well-liked colleague for the trustees.

"He devoted a huge amount of time and energy to making the charity sustainable, and creating real benefit for the public today and in the future. His humour, patience and great ability and understanding will be very much missed. Our thoughts and prayers are with Sarah and his family."