David Whitehead was known to many as a ‘selfless’ and ‘massive character’ who helped revive Marsden Liberal Club.

David, 56, who was known to many as Diver – a nickname he inherited from his dad and granddad – had been the club’s concert secretary for around 14 years and made it one of the go-to places for bands on the touring circuit.

He was also renowned for his fundraising work which he did through organising charity band days and taking part in an annual charity shave when local people would give his flowing hair and impressive beard the chop.

This was in addition to his willingness to help other people in the village where he had lived all his life and at work.

His brother, Bill Whitehead, said: “He helped keep the club going and turn it into the venue it is today.

“He was a great lover of music and booked lots of bands from around the region who he became good friends with and they helped him raise money for the two charities close to his heart, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and the British Lung Foundation.

“Even when he wasn’t at the club he was going to gigs with his friends, such as his closest friend Tim Dawson, up to several times a week.”

David, who died suddenly at home, was also a respected yard man for Northern Power Grid’s Salendine Nook base.

“He always went beyond his remit to help others-nothing was too much for him,” Bill added.

“It was this kindness that everyone will remember for, along with his many sayings, which people used to call ‘Diverisms.’

“He had a heart bigger than himself and was also a funny and gentle man.”

Well-wishers are invited to a service at St Bartholomew’s Church, Marsden, on Wednesday at 12.45pm which will be followed by speeches by those who knew him at Marsden Liberal Club.

On Sunday , the club will host a musical tribute day to him with performances by bands who knew him from noon.