Dr. Reg Yorke who has given so much to the heritage and environment of Formby has died aged 89 years

Today we bring you the very sad news that Dr Reg Yorke has passed away, aged 89 yrs. Dr. Yorke had been ill for some time and he passed away on 10th March quietly in his sleep with family present.

Dr Yorke was a highly respected man in Formby and In 2016 he received the Pride of Formby Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr Reg Yorke, along with his wife Barbara, had written a number of books about the history of Formby. He was an avid member of Formby Civic Society and lead the walks on the very popular Ravenmeols Heritage Trails.

John Phillips of Formby Civic Society said: "Dr. Reg Yorke passed away last week. He was a G.P. in Maghull for many years. Together with his wife Barbara, played a tremendous part in the life of Formby in the latter part of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century. They were both stalwart members of the Formby Civic Society (formerly the Formby Club) and were always at hand not only to develop strong leisure interests and opportunities for Society members but also to do all they could to safeguard the heritage and the environment of their community. They produced a number of books together on Formby and in their first publication proved that the very first lifeboat - a boat dedicated to the saving of lives at sea – and an associated lifeboat house were in Formby."

"Until only a few years ago, Reg was still Chairman of the Civic Society and he never lost his enthusiasm and determination to research the history of Formby and then celebrate it so the whole community would know and benefit. He introduced the Blue Plaques programme in Formby and was a prime mover in honouring the airmen who served at XXX during WWII. He also researched and wrote up the story of Formby’s lost seaside resort and was responsible for the development of the two trails for locals and visitors alike to discover the ‘lost resort’ and the Devil’s Hole’ at Ravenmeols."

There will be a celebration of his life at St. Luke’s Church on Tuesday 27th March at 11:30am.

Obituary:

YORKE - DR. REGINALD ANGELO, March 10, 2018.

Passed away peacefully at Kingsley Nursing Home aged 89 years. Devoted Husband of Barbara, much loved Dad of Diana, Roger, Rebecca, Penelope, Giles, Nigel, and Myles. Grandfather of Louise, Emily, Alex and Mala. Great Grandfather of Livia, and Ryleigh. Loving Brother of Veronica and Uncle of Linda, Jenny and Sue.

Private committal at Southport Crematorium followed by a Memorial service at St. Luke's Church Formby on Tuesday 27th March at 11.30am.

Family flowers only please, donations payable to RNLI c/o of Dean Bros Independent Funeral Directors, 01704 872023.