TRIBUTE has been paid to a stalwart of the world-famous Steeton Male Voice Choir who has died after a brave battle against cancer.

Len Wilson ­– who was 93 – had been diagnosed with lung cancer about a year ago, after being treated successfully for a tumour previously.

A socially-distanced presentation was made to him outside his East Morton home last November when he celebrated half a century with the choir, of which he was president.

“It is no exaggeration to say that Len has been the key man in the success of the choir for more than four decades,” said chairman, Mike Grady.

“His leadership and organisational skills played a huge role in sustaining Steeton Male Voice Choir as one of the leading choirs in Yorkshire and even England.”

Mr Wilson was born in Barrow-in Furness, where he joined the choir of St Paul’s Church at the age of seven.

After leaving school he trained as a teacher at St John’s College, York.

Following national service, he completed a probationary year teaching history and PE at a Barrow secondary modern before becoming deputy headteacher at Walney Island Primary School – and then moving on to Westow, near York.

Mr Wilson came to this area in 1967, serving as headteacher at East Morton Primary School for 20 years.

He joined the choir in 1970, as a second tenor.

Three weeks later he attended his first committee meeting – and had remained an ever-present.

He took on the role of treasurer in 1975 and during that time played a significant part in developing the choir – and began organising tours.

Mr Wilson then became secretary in 1993.

When he relinquished that post in 2012, he was invited to take-up the president role.

“Len’s work and commitment was nothing short of astonishing,” said Mr Grady.

“In the first two decades he did almost everything – concert and tour organiser, publicity officer and administrator general.

“His choir tours were legendary. They were not so much singing holidays, but more a European education!”

He was also heavily involved in the community, maintaining a link with East Morton Primary School and serving in the St Luke’s Church choir for decades.

“All those who knew Len will bear testimony to his charm and generosity of spirit,” added Mr Grady. “He was a true gentleman in all senses of the word and will be missed.”

Mr Wilson leaves a wife Margaret, sons Ian and Michael, a sister Anne and grandchildren and great-grandchildren.