One of Skipton’s oldest townsmen. Mr. Thomas STIRK, of 42, Otley Street, died yesterday aged 90.

A native of Cawder, on the outskirts of the town, he was as a young man a coachman to Mr. John Robinson, of Ravenshaw, Carleton, and later served in a similar capacity over a long period of years for Colonel George Robinson, of Dyneley House and Overdale, and for Mr. A. W. Stansfield. Raikes Road. He retired at the age of 78.

Mr. STIRK was a member of the Travellers’ Friend Lodge of the Independent Order of Oddfellows, joining in the early days of the Order when its meetings were held in the Hole in the Wall Hotel. He was the last of a family of nine brothers and one sister, several of whom lived to advanced ages.

He is survived by three sons, Mr. Herbert STIRK, of Toronto, Mr. Alfred STIRK, of Salt Lake City, and Mr. George STIRK, of Skipton.

Bradford Observer 28th July 1937