A LIFELONG Skipton resident, Kenneth Patchett , known to his friends as Ken, died peacefully at Riverside Care Home, Sawley last week. He was 84 and had led a varied career. Born in Russell Street. Skipton he moved to a house on Burnside Estate when he was eight. He attended Christ Church School followed by a scholarship at Ermysted's Grammar School.

After serving his National Service in the RAF, he had various jobs including solicitor's clerk and booking clerk with British Rail. He also worked in the personnel office at Rolls Royce, Barnoldswick and his last job before he retired was welfare officer at the Skipton Education Office.

Outside of work he was a keen tennis and badminton player, becoming a successful badminton coach. He loved to travel especially to the USA accompanied by his long-time friend Peter.

He will be sadly missed by friends, neighbours and former work colleagues alike.