West Lancashire crematorium was full recently for the funeral of a well known Ormskirk man who died suddenly following a heart attack in October.

And among the many tributes paid to Tony Daly,71, are these from two close friends from Ormskirk, Jane Thompson and Mary Wright.



Said Jane - pictured left with Tony, Mary and former Mayor Rob Bailey: "He was a very special and unique person, and passionate about Ormskirk.

"I had known him for about 12 years both as a friend and a member of Residents groups. He was vice chair of New Way Tenants and Residents Association( NWTRA) and also a committee member of New Ormskirk Residents Group.

"He attended meeting after meeting over the years with myself and Mary Wright from NWTRA to stop the proliferation of students HMO's and bring back affordable houses.

"He worked relentlessly and gave his time for free to areas he was passionate about.

"Tony could always be relied on; he was honest and caring, with a great sense of humour!

"Mary and Tony and I always called ourselves the '3 Musketeers'. He will be sorely missed, and my heartfelt sympathies go out to his family at this sad time.

Added Mary Wright, Chair of New Way Tenants and Residents Association(NWTRA): "Tony was Vice Chair of NWTRA, and will be sadly missed by the committee.

"Tony was a genuine, honest man and would stand by you - he had guts, he was one in a million.

"He also worked very hard for NWTRA giving his time freely. I would not like to tell how many meetings Tony, Jane and myself have been to over the years to help residents. He always said 'if you want something you have to stand up and fight'

"Tony always stood up. It was a very sad day when we lost him."

More warm words came from a close neighbour and friend Wendy Moores who lived opposite him; he was there regularly tending her beautiful garden.

Tony - whose funeral was on 1 November - was born on Railway Path and was a general contractor in the Ormskirk area, and a prolific local historian: http://ormskirk.qlocal.co.uk/ormskir...s-51330831.htm

He also wrote an excellent book on Ormskirk clock and watch makers with a comprehensive horological history of the area and detailed information about its clock and watchmakers. It included the surrounding villages of Aughton, Bickerstaffe, Parbold, Skelmersdale and Scarisbrick and has a chapter on local clock case makers. Presenting the history of clock making and watch making in Ormskirk, Lancashire, this work includes details of the men who made them.

He was also working on a book of local cabinet and furniture makers which his family hope to have published.

Roger Blaxall from QLocal was often contacted by phone or a friendly word as he walked into town as Tony passed on regular news tips which were much appreciated.