Sir Mervyn Pedelty, long-term supporter and ambassador for the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), has passed away.

Pedelty (pictured), a former chief executive of the Co-operative Bank, died on 28 January – 10 days after his 61st birthday.

Pedelty used his extensive knowledge from the financial sector to work on WWF’s sustainable finance.

A WWF spokeswoman said: “Sir Mervyn will be very much missed and we extend our sympathies to his family and others who were fortunate enough to work with him and benefit from his wisdom and guidance.”

Pedelty was knighted in 2005 New Year Honour’s List for his services to business and charity. He was also a trustee of the mental health charity Triumph over Phobia.