Tributes have been paid to a descendant of a former Prime Minister, who ‘touched many people’s hearts’.

Sir William Gladstone, great grandson of PM William Ewart Gladstone, died at the age of 92 on Thursday surrounded by his family at the Countess of Chester Hospital.

His son, Charles Gladstone, described him as a fantastic father who would do anything for anyone.

He said: “He was an eminent member of the British establishment and he was a man who always listened to everyone and had an incredible sense of humour. I have endless memories of him, he was a fantastic father and he had 15 grandchildren.”

Born in 1925, Sir Gladstone was Chief Scout, and in paying tribute to him, the Scout Association said: “As Chief Scout he encouraged the Movement to work hard and reach out to young people from all backgrounds. He particularly encouraged those from inner cities to join Scouting. He has been described as a visionary leader and a real progressive thinker of his time.”

Sir William was educated at Eton and Christ Church, Oxford and married Rosamund Anne Hambro in 1962. He succeeded his father as the 7th Baronet of Fasque and Balfour in 1968.

“Gladstone served in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve during the Second World War mainly based in the Indian Ocean serving with the destroyer force between 1943 and 1946. Following the War, he pursued a career in education and held the positions of Assistant Master at Shrewsbury from 1949 until 1950. He moved onto Eton and worked there from 1951 until 1961. He was appointed Head Master of Lancing College in 1961 and served until 1969. Upon inheriting the title from his father, he retired from teaching and moved to the family seat at Hawarden Castle.”

The association adds: “Sir William served as Deputy Lieutenant of Flintshire from 1969 and was made Vice Lord-Lieutenant in 1984. He was Alderman of Flintshire County Council from 1970 until 1974. He became chairman of the Representative Body of the Church in Wales in 1977 and served until 1992. He also held posts as chairman of the Council of Glenalmond College, Governor of Ruthin School and Justice of the Peace for Clwyd. Sir William first started Scouting whilst a student at Eton and encouraged school Groups during his teaching career. He was appointed Chief Scout in 1972 and held the position until 1982. He was also elected to the World Scout Committee in 1977 and served until 1983, the last three as chair.”

Sir William was awarded the Silver Wolf in 1972 “for services of the most exceptional character.”

Upon leaving his role as Chief Scout the Movement appointed him a Vice President of the Scout Movement. The Scout Association. Sir William was awarded the Bronze Wolf by the World Scout Committee in 1985, “the highest award that can be made to a volunteer in World Scouting.”

Charles added he was also made a Knight of the Garter by the Queen for his services to the country and the charitable work he did.

North Wales was Sir Gladstone’s home for many years and he influenced many people, one being Lord Barry Jones, who said he ‘led with great probity’.

Lord Barry Jones said: “Sir William Gladstone gave magnificent public service to our part of Wales. He was looked up to by all and his presence will be missed. One rather thinks the Church in Wales owes him a debt of gratitude. Lady Janet and I wish to offer our sincere sympathy to Lady Rosamund and all of her family.”

When not serving the community, Sir Gladstone enjoyed watercolour painting, forestry, farming, carpentry and gardening.

He leaves his wife, Rosamund, sons Charles and Robert and daughter Victoria along with 15 grandchildren.