Derek Hunt, a well-known Isle of Wight businessman, country music lover and vintage vehicle enthusiast, has sadly died at the age of 86.
Born on 3rd July 1939, Derek Hunt was a proud Caulkhead whose life was marked by tireless hard work, a love for community, and an unmistakable presence – often heard before he was seen thanks to his signature whistle and cheery greeting of ‘Alright mate!’.
Derek established DJ Hunt, a wholesale fruit and vegetable business, in 1964. Starting from scratch, he worked with his wife, Gail, to build a reputation that still stands strong today.
In the early years, many will remember Derek selling produce from the back of his lorry, often rushing through his rounds at such a pace that he earned the affectionate nickname ‘hurry hurry Hunt’ in the local market.
He and Gail raised their 6 children while running the growing business. Gail would be up early preparing breakfast before Derek headed off to market, then split her time between the shops, stalls and bookkeeping.
Despite the long working hours, Derek pursued his passion for country music in the 1970s and 80s by co-founding the Isle of Wight Country Music Centre in Pagham. With support from Gail and close friend Martin Chambers, they transformed their warehouse into a music venue, complete with straw bales, a hand-built bar, and live performances – sometimes held on the back of Derek’s own flatbed lorry. The events drew hundreds of fans and artists from both the UK and USA.
Later, Derek and Gail hosted a weekly country music slot on Angel Radio, attracting listeners from far and wide.
Derek was also deeply involved in the vintage vehicle scene. He restored and showcased a large collection of motorcycles, cars, lorries, tractors, buses and coaches – including his well-known orange and red Commer Avenger coach, ‘Lady Gail’. He was a familiar face at Havenstreet, the Great Dorset Steam Fair, and as chairman of the Isle of Wight Bus & Coach Museum.
Whether it was for his infectious enthusiasm, his unique lorry at local carnivals, or his dedication to traditional values in business, Derek was a man who left a lasting impression on all who met him.
He is survived by his beloved wife Gail, his 6 children, 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.
A funeral service to celebrate Derek’s life will take place at the Isle of Wight Crematorium on Friday 2nd January 2026 at 13:30, followed by refreshments at The Chequers Inn from 15:00.
R.I.P Derek
Derek was such a lovely man with a lovely family . He will be greatly missed , x