A HUDDERSFIELD musician has been killed in a hit and run tragedy.

Pedestrian Tony Robinson, 56, died at the scene after he was struck by a hit and run driver in Shepley at 5pm yesterday.

The popular organist played at many churches in the area and people have paid tribute to his kindness and friendliness.

The former army officer and father of two was declared dead at the scene after he was hit by a red Rover car on Lane Head Road.

The car was travelling down the main road towards Huddersfield when the tragedy happened. The car was later found burned out and police have now appealed for witnesses.

A police spokeswoman said: "The car failed to stop and the pedestrian was declared dead at the scene."

The car is now being examined by forensic experts.

Mr Robinson used to work at Holset Engineering before retiring several years ago.

He lived in Shepley and his next door neighbour and close friend, Joan Gough, rushed to the scene to comfort him.

She said: "He was a very kind man, a real gentleman. He was so nice and a wonderful organist and pianist."

Mr Robinson had called into his local pub, the Black Bull Inn on Marsh Lane in Shepley, for a teatime pint.

He was struck by the car moments after leaving the pub to go home.

Landlord Bob Fallon said: "I came to the pub a couple of years ago and he was the first customer I ever served.

"He was a very happy person."

Churchwarden Doreen Halliwell added: "David was a very friendly man and was known by everyone in the village."

Mr Robinson, who was divorced, leaves a daughter Lucy and son Giles.

He was a keen charity fundraiser for Huddersfield Macular Disease Society.

Anyone with information should contact Huddersfield traffic police on 01484 436847.