TRIBUTE has been paid to a great-grandfather who has died soon after celebrating 70 years of marriage.

Alec Hudson died in Airedale Hospital, aged 97, following a sudden illness.

Last week we reported how he and his wife Lenora had marked their platinum anniversary with a party at Beanlands Nursing Home, Cross Hills, where Mr Hudson was a resident.

The couple met on the Falkland Islands during the Second World War, when Mr Hudson was posted there.

Mrs Hudson grew up on the South Atlantic islands.

They went on to have two children, four grandchildren and a great granddaughter.

Son Michael said: "I'm so grateful to my dad – and mum too – for bringing up my sister Sheila and I in a loving family, to differentiate right from wrong and appreciate the value of good manners.

"He instilled in us a love of fresh air and walking through the Yorkshire countryside.

"Dad adored his grandchildren and great granddaughter Eva and enjoyed their company immensely.

"He rarely seemed to be ill, so we have been shaken by his sudden departure from this life. He will be greatly missed by all of us."

The funeral takes place at Skipton Crematorium at 1.20pm on Friday (June 30).

Donations can be made to Manorlands hospice.