VETERAN conductor Ken Rothery has been honoured for his life’s work.

A special tribute concert was held at Huddersfield Town Hall for the Linthwaite man, who has led countless choirs over the past decades.

Ken, 83, said: “It was a great honour.”

Holmfirth Choral Society, Hade Edge Band and Huddersfield Choral Society Junior Choirs were among the groups which performed at the tribute concert.

Ken’s youngest son Nigel also sang at the event.

Ken said: “I’m very glad that he took an interest in music – he’s a much better singer than me.”

Ken was head of music at Kirkburton Secondary Modern School. He also sang with Huddersfield Choral Society for 55 years and was awarded life membership.

He was choirmaster at Parkwood Methodist Church and Longwood Methodist Church and was musical director of Honley Gilbert and Sullivan Society for 25 years.

Ken also conducted Holmfirth Choral Society was the first conductor of Huddersfield Choral Society Youth Choir.

He said: “I got a lot of satisfaction from all the groups I’ve worked with. I just love singing.”

Proceeds from the concert went to Kirkwood Hospice.