For 17 years he was speaker secretary, during which time the variety and quality of the speakers said much for his hard work, discernment and powers of persuasion.

His own interests were reflected in the programmes he arranged. Music was very prominent, for he had taken a leading part in the music at Knowle Park Congregational Church (now Trinity Church) both in the choir and as an organiser of a very successful Youth Choir.

So the musical concerts Harold and Jack Smith provided at the Forum were special meetings necessitating the use of the Swire Smith Hall.

Special accommodation was required, too, for the visit of Barney Colehan, the television producer.

Harold was a Keighley man, well known as a newsagent in Oakworth Road; he lived all his long life in Keighley except for war service in the RAF during the war, but loved to travel to many parts of Britain both by cycle and later by Dormobile.

He was a prominent figure on the Summer walks of the Forum, many of which he led, so that talks on the beautiful parts of our island and abroad were always featured, some very outstanding ones.

He was very pleased on two occasions to bring to the Forum John Hawkridge, who though disabled made amazing and courageous excursions to the Himalayas.

So he provided enjoyment and happiness for many people and his kindly, friendly, beneficent presence will be long remembered by all who knew him both for himself and for the work he did.

Members of the Forum send their heartfelt condolences to Mary, his faithful and supportive wife of almost 70 years, to Ian, so often a most welcome speaker at his father's request, Pamela his daughter and all the family.