A WELL-known Keighley pork butcher – popularly called the Pie Man – has died aged 95.

Billy Stables returned from national service in the Royal Navy to work at Johnnie Stables Pork Shop in South Street, Keighley, which belonged to a distant relative.

In 1950 he and his wife Chrissie took over the business, working 14-hour days to make it a success.

"The shop was famous for its pork pies and other pork products from snout to tail – it was said that the squeaks were even sold to a balloon factory!" said his son-in-law, Michael Ward.

Following a proposed widening of South Street in 1969 Mr Stables decided to relocate the business to Beechcliffe and take over a shop in North Street, with his daughter Christine and Michael.

"He supplied pies to several retail establishments, pubs and clubs throughout the district and was remembered for his flat cap with his tray of pies balanced on the top," said Mr Ward.

"Billy lived for work but still enjoyed his grandchildren and great grandchildren, a good laugh and a bottle of Guinness or two!"

He retired from the business in 2002, aged 82.

"His work ethic could only be admired as he was one of the old school who did his best – an exemplary man," added Mr Ward.

The funeral service was held at Oakworth on Tuesday.

Donations to the RNLI in Mr Stables' memory can be made online at david-gallagher.co.uk.