A MEMORIAL has been unveiled to former Addingham Parish Council Chairman Gordon Campbell.

Family members joined present-day parish council chairman Catherine Coates and Cllr Alan Jerome for the ceremony at the village medical centre.

Speaking at the ceremony Cllr Jerome said: "Gordon Campbell was one of those people who committed himself, totally and completely in everything that he did."

He added: "When he came to live here he didn’t just sit back and let things just happen.

"He became the manager of the football club, he was elected a parish councillor, being Chairman for seven years from 2001 to 2008, he played a key role in the negotiations for the coming of our medical centre and in addition to all this he was a local magistrate.

"He battled his illness with great fortitude and was an example to us all on how not to give in.

"Sitting alongside Gordon, on the Parish Council, was a pleasure and enjoyment. He could always see the main point in any argument and, with his wonderful sense of humour, would bring debates to a sensible conclusion.

"I know his family miss him. I am proud to say to them, so do we. There are not many people who make such a truly indelible mark in the life around them, but Gordon really did."

An inscription on the memorial says: "Remembered for his wit, for his dedication and for his total commitment to the village of Addingham."