A prominent lawyer who served as a District Judge for many years has died.
Mr John Harrison, 71, sat on the bench for more than 27 years before his retirement in 2008.
Mr Harrison, of Holmfirth, was first chosen as a District Judge for Leeds and Wakefield in 1981 but three years later got the chance to be District Judge for his home town and was delighted with the opportunity.
Mr Harrison was a former student at King James’ Grammar School in Almondbury and then went on to study law at Liverpool University.
He was articled at Eaton Smith and Downey in Huddersfield and having completed his studies at Liverpool re-joined the firm where he was stay for more than 15 years, rising to become a partner in the practice.
He specialised in criminal law and was delighted to be offered the post as a judge.
Away from the courtroom Mr Harrison had been a keen chess player since his schooldays.
As a young man he represented Huddersfield Chess Club and Yorkshire and later in life he played chess with the Holmfirth club.
He was married to Judith in 1968 and the couple had two children, Selina and Philip. Mr Harrison also leaves five grandchildren – Sam, Ben, Violet, Lucas and Tom.
Both Mr and Mrs Harrison have been long time season ticket-holders at Huddersfield Town and Mr Harrison was also a staunch supporter of Yorkshire County Cricket Club.
Mr Harrison was a member of Huddersfield Rotary Club and of Kirkburton Probus Club.
A funeral service takes place at 1pm on November 6 at Christ Church, New Mill.
