THE former president of Ilkley British Legion has died aged 92.

David Arthur Thomas passed away at Wingfield Nursing Home in Bingley on August 12.

The Burma Star veteran was born in Bradford in October 1922 and lived in in the Thornbury area until he joined the RAF when he was 17. He was stationed in Bedford, and this is where he met his wife Dorothy. They were married in Bishop Auckland, as this is where Dorothy cam from. The couple enjoyed four days honeymoon in Whitley Bay before he was sent overseas to Burma.

He would never talk about his time in Burma to his family as he lost some good friends.

He was sent to India after the war and stayed there for two years before he returned home, where the couple had had two sons, Allan and Christopher.

He left the RAF and joined the Bradford City police force in 1949 where he worked until 1965, rising through the ranks to inspector, before being transferred to Dorset Police force. He retired in 1980 from Poole, Dorset, and returned to live in Addingham as his two sons both returned to the north of England to live.

He became an active volunteer and was involved in organising the Bolton Abbey Gala for many years. He became president of Ilkley British Legion until this closed and was the flag bearer in the Remembrance Day parade, organising this every year. He took pride in leading the Poppy Appeal.

He moved to Burley-in-Wharfedale and then to Menston for the last 27 years. Dorothy died six years ago.

He continued to enjoy life and was known as being very sociable and for his honesty and diplomacy. He took frequent holidays to Blackpool to enjoy with his family.

He also leaves four grandchildren Becky, Stuart, Carolyne and Ian and four great grandchildren, Olivia, Joshua, Jacob and Max.

His funeral is at 1pm on Wednesday at Rawdon Crematorium.

The family has asked for family flowers only, donations may be made on the day to the family's chosen charity.