Tributes pour in following sudden death of legendary Sheffield photographer Glenn Ashley
Hundreds of shocked friends and colleagues posted tributes and memories
Tributes have poured in following the death of a highly-respected and much-loved Sheffield photographer and modeller.
Glenn Ashley, aged 66, died suddenly on Friday, July 10.
Glenn started out as a navy photographer and set up his own business when he left in 1992.
He was a highly experienced press, PR and gig photographer, working for a huge range of clients including national and local press, including The Star, CSI photography for the police and innumerable gigs, from small venues through to arenas and festivals, working with musicians at all levels.
He was house photographer at Sheffield Arena and City Hall and festival photographer at Wentworth Music Festival.
His aviation photos were published around the world and he authored 10 books.
He also ran Blackbird Models, a manufacturer and retailer of model aircraft.
BBC radio presenter and organiser of Wentfest, Toby Foster, said: “So sad to hear that Glenn Ashley has died. I’ve no idea how many times I’ve smiled at Glenn, either through a lens or not, but every time I met him he was an absolute pleasure. Incredibly supportive and helpful and a massive part of South Yorkshire. Rest in Peace Glenn.”
Sheffield artist Pete McKee said: “So sad and shocked to hear of the passing of the wonderful Glenn Ashley.
“I first met Glenn back in the day while we both worked at the Sheffield Telegraph and he came round to my house on Batemoor to snap me painting in my kitchen when I was just starting out as an artist.
“Whenever you met him he’d always have a smile on his face. He loved music as much as he loved taking photos and being able to combine both as a job must have contributed to that infectious smile.
“The Everly Pregnant Brothers had the privilege of being snapped on many occasions by Glenn as he had a gift of being able to capture the essence of what it is to experience live music.”
Journalist Graham Walker, who worked with Glenn at The Star, said he was a “Sheffield legend” who leaves an extraordinary legacy of photographs and memories.
He added: “For years we worked side-by-side, front of house and backstage, at arenas, festivals and theatres, reviewing and interviewing some of the biggest names on the planet.
“From rock legends to pop superstars, Hollywood icons to Yorkshire favourites, Glenn was always there - camera in hand, working his magic.
“He had an incredible eye for a picture and an even greater work ethic. No angle was too difficult, no challenge too much.
“He would always go the extra yard to find that special shot that brought my words to life. His photographs didn’t just record events; they told the story.”
Glenn had diabetes and a foot operation seven months ago from which he was still recovering.
Following his death, son Chris said: “He will be greatly missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.
“We are grateful for the love, support, and prayers from our family and friends during this difficult time.”