TRIBUTE has been paid to a stalwart member of Keighley Angling Club who has died aged 80.

Dennis Freeman had been a member for nearly 60 years and was the only person in the club's history to hold all three positions of secretary, treasurer and, more recently, president.

As well as being an accomplished angler, Mr Freeman was recognised as an astute businessman, and his financial management was credited with helping to steer Keighley Angling Club through challenging times, particularly during the pandemic.

Born in London, he moved to Keighley with his wife June to bring up their three children and he became a well-known figure in the town.

Club chair, Bob Granger, says: "Dennis was a much respected member of our club and served tirelessly on the committee for many decades.

"Fishing was his chief passion. He represented Keighley at the National Angling Championships, and had many successes on the local circuit.

"When his health started to fail, Dennis faced his illness with courage and stoicism. He will be sadly missed and our thoughts and sympathies are with his family."