‘Mr Gisburn’ dies

Mr Harry Turner Waddington, who was dubbed “Mr Gisburn” for his life-long dedication and hard work for the village, died at home after a short illness.

Mr Waddington was born in Gisburn and ran his own business in the timber trade, later branching out into building contracting.

After completing his National Service with the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, Mr Waddington met his wife-to-be, Hilda, at an ex-serviceman’s gathering at Gisburn.

The couple married at St Michael’s Church, Bracewell, and made their home in Gisburn, having three children – Helen Smith and Richard and David Waddington.

Mr Waddington was described as a “kind, caring and community-spirited person” who was passionate about village life. He served as a Ribble Valley councillor for 25 years covering Gisburn, Rimington, Paythorne and Horton-in-Craven. He formed a Young Conservatives branch and was a member of the Gisburn Playing Fields Committee.

Mrs Waddington said: “Harry was always involved in all aspects of village life. He enjoyed organising village events so that the community could get together. When we had a gala and a procession through Gisburn, he always organised a fantastic float and loved dressing up.

“He thrived on helping others and never retired. He underwent a knee operation last September and continued to work seven days a week. He was a workaholic. He developed a small timber business into a sawmill company called Railside Trading.

“He also had a passion for shooting and was a member of Catlow Shoot in Slaidburn.”

Mr Waddington’s children also paid tribute, saying: “Dad was a very caring person who would go out of his way to help others. Everyone knew him as ‘Mr Gisburn’ and ‘Lord Log’ because he represented the village. We have not only lost a dad, but a diamond.”

A funeral service will be held at St Mary’s Church, Gisburn at 11 a.m. tomorrow followed by burial. Mr Waddington leaves his wife, his three children and four grandchildren.