Tributes are being paid to Dame Anita Roddick who died yesterday of a brain haemorrhage.
The daughter of Italian immigrants, Dame Anita, 64, became one of Britain's most successful businesswomen.
She set up the first Body Shop in Brighton in 1976, pioneering cruelty-free beauty products and turned them into a highly profitable business.
Gordon Brown led the praises saying: "She campaigned for green issues for many years before it became fashionable to do so and inspired millions to the cause by bringing sustainable products to a mass market.
Entrepreneur
"She will be remembered not only as a great campaigner but also as a great entrepreneur," he said.
In the 1990s its fortunes were hit as rivals started making similar products, but the retailer fought back and has grown into a global phenomenon with more than 2,100 stores in 55 countries.
It became part of the French company L'Oreal last year although the company is still run independently.
Adrian Bellamy, chairman of The Body Shop International, said: "Anita leaves us with an enduring legacy which will long guide the affairs of The Body Shop.”
September 11 2007