The founder of the Roundhouse charity, Sir Torquil Norman CBE, has passed away aged 91.

Torquil was the founder, president and former chair of the charity, as well as a businessman and advocate for creativity, the arts and young people.

He became CEO of toy manufacturing company Berwick Timpo in 1973 and founded Bluebird Toys – owners of Polly Pocket and Big Yellow Teapot – where he was executive chair between 1980 and 1996.

Torquil bought the Roundhouse in 1996 when he established the Norman Trust and turned the Camden-based building into a creative performing arts hub.

“It is with immense sadness that we say farewell to our brilliant and formidable founder, President, former Chair and great friend, Sir Torquil Norman CBE who died peacefully at home on Wednesday 19 March 2025,” the Roundhouse said in a statement.

“He was a true visionary, who brought so much joy to this world and never stopped believing in young people and never stopped believing in the Roundhouse.

“Without Torquil, the Roundhouse simply would not exist as it does today. He was an extraordinary business man, a huge advocate for creativity, the arts and young people, and simply a wonderful human being.

“We are sending all of our love to his partner and children and the whole Norman family at this desperately sad time.”

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