Bernard Blashill

He was a retired farmer who was born in the village of Welwick, near Withernsea, where he lived all his life and was affectionately known as the "Welwick Relic" because of his vast collection of vintage farm machinery and cars, which were a key part of his fundraising

activities.

He was a man who loved doing things for other people and his opinion was valued by many in the village. Withernsea Town Clerk Jayne Moxon said residents felt as if they had lost a national treasure.

With his wife Mary he raised hundreds of thousands of pounds over more than 20 years for local cancer charities such as Dove House Hospice, in Hull, and the village church of St Mary's.

The largest of their charity events was an annual heritage weekend in October at his home, Moat Farm, where an exhibition of his steam engines, threshing machines, tractors and vintage cars, as well as an auction, drew more than 1,000 visitors from far afield. Last year it celebrated its 21st anniversary.

He also helped to run the Welwick Two Wheelers Bike Ride to Kilnsea every Good Friday, attracting up to 250 cyclists. The event began in 1994 following a bet in a local pub and has grown into a large fundraiser for local cancer charities.

His wife has said she wants this year's event to carry on, and organisers are hoping that many more cyclists will take part this time.

Mr Blashill who could often be seen over the years riding his bicycle round the village, also opened his farm to the Holderness Threshermen for their annual threshing event, while at Christmas he would accompany local carol singers with his fairground organ.

He lived next to the village church and he would open it up each day.

In 2007, he was presented with the East Riding Council Chairman's Award for his contribution to the community.

Mr Blashill died in hospital after being hit by a vehicle as he got out of his car in the village last week. He is survived by his wife, Mary.

A funeral service will be held at St Mary's Church, Welwick, next Wednesday at 1pm.