Tributes have been paid to a community stalwart in Bradford who has lost his battle against illness aged 80.

Family and friends will gather at Scholemoor Cemetery tomorrow to say their final farewells to John Rawnsley, who spent more than two decades serving communities around Thorpe Edge and Ravenscliffe. His funeral will be followed with a celebration of his life at the Gateway Centre in Ravensclife at about 12.30pm.

Mr Rawnsley, who was also known for his towering height, got involved in community work in 1991 when he first came to Greengates and was asked to help out with electrical work for the Thorpe Edge Festival.

He sold his own electrical business that year and in 1993, after giving up paid work because of arthritis dedicated much of his time to volunteer work playing a part on many local committees and boards helping shape the neighbourhood.

Those who worked with Mr Rawnsley said he had seen lots of changes happen in the community around him and had always wanted to be a part of it, committing himself to the area and being a voice for local people, supporting them passionately.

Mr Rawnsley leaves his wife Sheila.