TRIBUTES have been paid to a leading North Yorkshire Conservative, church stalwart and hospital fundraiser, who has died aged 89.

More than 100 people gathered at St Peter's Church, Dalby-cum-Skewsby, near Ampleforth, to honour Peter Hollier, who served as chairman of the Ryedale Conservative Association, founded the Vale of York association and remained as chairman, president or vice-president for a number of years, latterly for the Thirsk and Malton Association.

During the Second World War, Mr Hollier served in the RAF as a navigator in the Middle East and later became a plantation manager for Unilever in west Africa, where he almost died from a snake bite.

Thirsk and Malton MP Anne McIntosh said it was particularly appropriate Mr Hollier was treated in his final days at St Monica's Hospital, Easingwold, having worked tirelessly to raise funds for it since moving to North Yorkshire around 25 years ago.

Mr Hollier also served as church warden in Dalby-cum-Skewsby until January, as well as being an active member of numerous Church of England groups.

Miss McIntosh said: "His exemplary voluntary, charitable and political work has been invaluable to the people of the Vale of York and Ryedale.

"Peter represents the stalwarts on which all political parties and local communities depend and and yet all too often take for granted.

"He was unfailing in his service to his community, and he acted as a constant and willing source of advice and assistance to all in this area who sought his help."