ONE of Farndale’s best-known personalities, Dennis Featherstone, has died suddenly at the age of 78.

A life-long farmer, Mr Featherstone had lived in the dale all his life, farming at Keysbeck Farm, Low Mill, and specialising in sheep and beef breeding.

He was chairman of Farndale Show, a position he had held for many years, and was clerk of the Farndale West Parish Council.

His many other interests included shooting, acting as a bush beater and cricket, being a keen player in his younger days.

Mr Featherstone was also a helper at Malton market and the Fadmoor sheep sales.

His wife, Marlene, to whom he had been married for 55 years, said: “Dennis loved Farndale and all its activities and people and will be greatly missed. He was a much- loved family man.”

He also leaves two sons, Howard and Gordon, seven grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

The Low Mill Band Room, which he had supported for many years, is to be a beneficiary from donations in his memory at the funeral service which is to be held tomorrow (Thursday) at St Mary’s Church, Farndale.

Donations will also benefit St Mary’s Church and the Diabetic Society.