A plaque has been presented to Keighley Shared Church in memory of two stalwart members.

Funeral directors David and Adele Gallagher, based at Skipton Road in Utley, have donated the brass plaque for display in the church.

It is in tribute to Mrs Gallagher’s great uncle, Billy Blowes, and fellow lifelong parishioner, Kathleen Pickles, who left a bequest to the church that was used to improve lighting in the nave.

As a child, Mr Blowes was a Sunday School member and choir boy at the church, and later became verger, a post he held for more than 20 years.

“He loved the church dearly,” said Mrs Gallagher.

“His faithfulness of service led in later years to his generosity, not only in giving money to various appeals when the fabric of the church was in need of repair, but from time to time offering financial help to families who needed assistance.

“He was kind to everyone, always having a word with those who passed by or who visited during his time as verger.”