Hugh has been a part of my life since childhood and a fixture of St John The Baptist in The Wilderness, Cragg Vale. Thoughts with Caroline, Selina, Jade and family. A life well lived. From Carol Noon née Wheelwright

In the 1970's I used to walk down from Withens Clough reservoir to catch the morning Cragg Vale bus for my work in Halifax, I welcomed the kindness of Hugh stopping to give me a lift. I remember he had a healthy interest in the remedial work at the reservoir, he highlighted problems with the reservoir that was not obvious to the casual observer. He was obviously intelligent, as he probed me about the remedial work. I remember feeling uncomfortable as I knew what was happening, but I had promised dad I would not discuss it with anybody. Fifty years later, I always wanted to re visit those conversations again. In summer you could find us sitting outside the doctors/ chemists in Mytholmroyd and having a cheerful conversation. I recall an incident about 30 years ago when a distress male jumped into the reservoir at 2 a.m., changed his mind and came to our house soaked through and asking for help. The emergency services at the time were less than compassionate. After that incident Hugh explained his position with the Samaritans and offered to come up anytime to help anyone we find in a distressed state. His care and compassion shone out.

A truly remarkable gentleman who will be missed by many