A former chairman of Steeton Male Voice Choir has died after living with Parkinson's disease for a decade.

Seventy-three-year-old Robert (Bob) Metcalfe Shepherd died at his Grassington home, with his wife of 39 years, Jean, at his side. Bob was born on February 5 1934 and was one of nine brothers and sisters.

He was brought up on a farm near Horton-in-Ribblesdale, where his love for wildlife and the countryside began.

He studied engineering at the then Keighley Technical College and went on to work as an inspector at Dean, Smith and Grace, in Keighley, before taking the position of co-director of Wharfedale Gauge Company.

Bob did his National Service in the RAF, where he serviced and repaired planes. He loved flying and always dreamed of owning his own light aircraft.

He was also a skilled motor mechanic and enjoyed restoring old Austin and Jowett cars.

Bob was a keen sportsman, taking part in athletics, football, cricket, bowls and golf. He was also a talented ballroom dancer but his main love was singing and he was honoured to hold the position of chairman of Steeton Male Voice Choir.

Bob played a full part in village life in Addingham for 25 years and more recently Grassington. He sat on parent teacher associations, organised fell races and acted in plays and countless pantomimes, where he was always cast as the villain.

Bob was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease ten years ago but still led a full life until the disease got the better of him in 2006.

However, with the support of family, friends, health care professionals and his wife, Bob managed to stay at his home until his death. As well as Jean, Bob leaves three daughters, Annette, Denise and Yvonne, and three grandchildren.

A funeral service was held at Linton Church.