The Association of Fleet Professionals (AFP) has announced Steve Hook, the trade body’s training manager for 29 years, passed away suddenly on Friday (November 18) at his home in Somerset.

Hook joined the Institute of Car Fleet Management (ICFM) at its inception in 1992 as training officer, then training manager.

The AFP said he had “trained, nurtured, supported and guided hundreds of students” throughout his career at the ICFM and latterly the AFP. 

He retired in May last year but was still supporting the AFP training team and looking forward to tutoring part of the Advanced Programme in 2023.

Paying tribute to Hook, an AFP spokesman said: “Steve was so inspirational and motivating – he has had a positive impact on so many of our members’ careers. 

“Steve had an ability to unlock skills some of our students never thought they had, equipping them with the knowledge, tools and confidence to do their jobs to the best of their ability, which in turn has made a huge difference to the fleet industry through the years

“He leaves behind a fantastic legacy, and we will miss him terribly at the AFP.”

Aside from his time with the ICFM and AFP, Hook was employed at Lex Vehicle Leasing and Gloucestershire Police during his career.

The spokesman added: “We send our sincerest condolences and love to Steve’s wife Fiona and sons Justin and Luke.”