Harry Peacock, one of the best-known personalities of Keighley's political past, has died at the age of 83.

Former Labour group leader, Mr Peacock and his wife Mary had lived for the past two years in Stratford with their daughter, Julia.

Mr Peacock was planning chairman during the 1960s when the council approved plans for the massive redevelopment of Keighley town centre. He was a renowned battler for his adopted town and was involved for many years in efforts to build a Keighley civic centre.

Mr Peacock, who spent his working life with Yorkshire Electricity, met Scots girl Mary while serving in the King's Own Border Regiment during the Second World War.

Following their marriage in 1944 they moved first to Sutton, then Utley, where they lived until 1988. Until recently they lived in Mr Peacock's native Skipton. Throughout his life, Mr Peacock was a keen motorcyclist and until his death remained a fan of big band music, regularly attending concerts.

Mr Peacock is survived by his children Harry and Richard, who live in Sutton, Violet, who lives in the Caribbean, Robert, who lives in South Craven and Julia. He also has nine grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

The funeral will be on Wednesday at 2.30pm at Oakley Wood, Warwick. For more details contact Julia Smedley on 01789 841396.