The industrial chemist Bill McNally, whose pioneering work in pipeline protection earned his company two prestigious Queen's Awards, has died at the age of 89.
Remembered as a devoted husband and a quietly remarkable man, Bill's life was defined by professional achievement and personal passion, most notably for ballroom dancing where he met the love of his life.
A Life Forged in Industry
Born in Bootle to Owen McNally, a Liverpool docker, and Eva (nee Rimmer), Bill was instilled with a strong work ethic from a young age. He attended Bootle grammar school for boys and the Liverpool Institute for Boys before beginning his career as a lab technician at the local tar works, which later became Lanstar Coatings Ltd.
Demonstrating immense determination, Bill studied for further qualifications while working full-time, eventually earning a licentiate in chemistry. His career progressed from the laboratory into sales at Lanstar, which was subsequently absorbed by Metrotect Industries Ltd, a Bootle firm specialising in protective materials for pipelines.
International Success and Royal Recognition
As a sales director for Metrotect, Bill's role took him across the Arab states during the 1970s, splitting his time between Dubai and north-west England. His leadership was instrumental in building the company's international reputation.
His technical expertise led to the creation of a innovative pipeline coating, for which Metrotect received its first Queen's Award for Technological Achievement in 1976 (now known as the King's Awards for Enterprise). The company's excellence was recognised a second time with a Queen's Award for Export in 1990. Bill retired five years later, concluding a nearly 40-year tenure with the firm.
Passion on the Dance Floor
Beyond the chemical plant, Bill was a man of great spirit. He was a lifelong Everton supporter and a gifted ballroom dancer. He was a regular at iconic venues like the Floral Hall in Southport and the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.
It was through his love of dance that he met June Manton. Their romance blossomed on the dance floor, culminating in their marriage in Hawaii in 1990. The couple built a joyful life together on the north-west coast, embracing travel—with Bermuda being Bill's favourite destination—and family. Bill cared for June's daughters, Debbie and Rosalind, as his own.
June died in 2018. Bill is survived by his sister, Eve, his nephews, and by Debbie and Rosalind.
