Robert White was born in Sandbanks, Poole. The son of a hotel worker who lived in the workers accommodation, he was an extraordinary man who sadly lost his life to neuroendocrine tumours (NETS) at the age of 62.
From a very early age, Robert became interested in motorcycles; their engineering and design grew into an appreciation of all things beautifully manufactured, be it motorcycles, motorcars, engines, steam engines, watches and cameras. Robert was eager to see the impact of his legacy within his own lifetime and decided to sell his prized lifetime collection of Brough Superior vintage motorcycles so that he could make a substantial donation to Poole Hospital prior to his death. He approached one of his close friends, Jay Leno, the US chat show king and comedian, who agreed to purchase the collection for £3.5 million. Shortly after the sale, Robert made a donation of £3.5 million to Poole Hospital so that work on The Robert White Cancer Centre could commence.
Robert was an entrepreneur, a self-made successful businessman, and founder of Robert White Photographic. The company was established in 1982 and became internationally recognised, attracting a world-wide customer base with an enviable reputation for quality products and excellent service.