TRIBUTES have been paid to Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority Member Bob Gale, who has died at the age of 68.

Born in Otley, the Richmondshire district councillor served as a full-time fireman with the West Riding County Fire Service for more than 30 years.

In 1996, he and his wife Shirley moved to Arkengarthdale, north of Hawes, where he became involved in the local community and was a member of the parish council.

YDNPA chairman Peter Charlesworth said today: “We knew he was seriously ill but it still came as a great shock.

“He became a member of the authority nominated by Richmondshire District Council in May 2011, and immediately impressed everyone with his warm and friendly approach and his devotion and love for the National Park, particularly Arkengarthdale, for whose interests he was especially concerned.

“He was always keen to support local people and residents as well as being mindful of the importance of the Dales to visitors and, indeed, to everyone.

“His contributions to our debates and work were always valuable and he never fell out with those who expressed a contrary view, instead maintaining a friendship and respect for all which, in turn, was fully reciprocated to him.

“He will be very much missed and the thoughts of myself, the deputy chairman Harold Brown – who was particularly close to Bob – and the other Members are with his wife, his two sons and two grandchildren and his close friends at this sad time.”

His funeral will be held on Wednesday (Dec 18) at St Mary’s Church in Arkengarthdale at 12 noon.