A CHOCOLATIER who invented the much-loved Walkers Chocolates has died aged 83.

Bob Walker's chocolate boxes have been a stocking filler since the brand was created in 1977.

The company supply a wide range of chocolate and confectionery including filled chocolates, truffles, chocolate bars and Easter eggs. 

MailOnline reported Mr Walker's partner Johanna Laurie said: "His motto was 'smile, be happy', so it’s hardly surprising that he put an uplifting saying into every box of chocolates."

She added that he never ate chocolate, instead he sampled it "like a sommelier".

Speaking of her heartbreak, Johanna said: "For those he leaves behind, including his five grandchildren, life will be empty without this lovely, larger-than-life man."

Bob's family bought a sweet shop in South London when he was young.

Then, after his father died, he took over as manager of the store. 

Realising his love for the chocolate business world, he went on to buy a sweet shop in Kent with his then-wife Patricia.

He then bought two more confectionery shops in Orpington and Penge. 

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Bob then travelled the world, and started importing confectionery from Italy and Isreal.

And in 1977 he bought an old factory in Birmingham and established Walkers Chocolates.

After retiring seven years ago, the business went under new management. 

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