Moore, who co-founded Explore with Travers Cox in 1981 and pioneered the adventure and small group tours sector, chaired Aito from 2007 to 2020 and served as deputy chair from 2020 until his death.

The association said there had been “an outpouring of fond comments and stories” from its members about Moore and his “inspiring” character.

Warm memories ranged from those who had received their first job in travel as tour leaders for Explore and Moore’s “unusual interview style”, to a story from former Explore managing director Ashley Toft about leaving his interview with a ticket to Morocco ready to start his training.

“I am also a product of those early Explore leader interviews, above the kebab shop in Aldershot, as are so many around the industry today. In my case, I left the interview with an airline ticket in my hand! It was a privilege to have worked with Derek - and Travers - in those early Explore days, and so great that he was still involved in Aito to the bitter end,” said Toft.

Later in his life, Moore penned a book about his 40-year career - during which he visited more than 100 countries - and launched The Derek Moore Foundation to champion sustainable travel.

On the topic, he said: “Along with the fun and adventure that such travels brought, came the realisation of some serious truths: that education, together with support for health facilities, the nurturing of traditional art, music and crafts and the promotion of sport are all key to improving and changing lives in the disadvantaged communities of so many countries.

“Whilst major charities do so much good on a wider scale, help is also needed for numerous smaller community projects. Projects too small in scale to attract the interest of major charities; projects where even a donation of just a few thousand pounds can make a big difference at a community level.  It’s these smaller community projects that we are aiming to work with. So now, starting - and funding - the Derek Moore Foundation gives me the chance to give something back to the communities through which I have travelled.”

Paying his personal tribute, Martyn Sumners, executive director of Aito, said he had "never stopped learning" from Moore across the 20 years of knowing and working with him.

“He had a real ability to make a strong point in an erudite way, and was more than happy to share his knowledge and experience whenever you needed advice," Sumners said.

"He loved Aito with such a passion that he wanted to be fully involved as much as possible, sitting on many sub-committees as well as taking his responsibilities as both an officer and as a council member very seriously. RIP my friend – you will be sorely missed by not only me and the Aito family, but by all of the specialist travel industry."

Moore leaves his wife, Amelia, and two sons, Amani and Derek Jr (known as DJ). Aito sends its condolences to his family and his many friends and colleagues worldwide.