The former general counsel of the Co-op Group, Alistair Asher, has passed away after a short illness, the business has confirmed.

An Allen & Overy (A&O) lawyer for 34 years, Asher joined the Co-op in 2013, in the midst of the firm's £1.5 billion plan to recapitalise its banking arm.

In 2017, he took up a new role as director of special projects for the business, with former Dixons Carphone group GC Helen Grantham replacing him in the top legal role.

Asher spent 26 years as a partner at A&O, where he also served as global head of the firm's financial institutions practice.

He was also part of the team working on plans to recapitalise the Co-operative Bank following the financial crisis. He also advised Lloyds on its rescue takeover of HBOS in 2008.

In a statement, Co-op Group CEO Steve Murrells praised Asher's tireless work and his role in the rescue deal.

"I can say without hesitation that the Co-op would not be here today if it weren't for Alistair Asher. He truly believed in the importance of the co-operative movement and became a passionate advocate for co-operation," Murrells said.

"Along the way he made many friends who recognised his integrity and admired his good nature and hard work. I will miss him greatly and I'm sure many of you will too."