DOUGLAS Heald, a York artist, adventurer and animal welfare campaigner, has died after a short illness, aged 71.

Mr Heald, who was educated at Shipton Street School and later York Art School, spent much of his youth roaming freely on the Clifton Backies, sparking a life-long passion for natural history and conservation.

His daughter Sarah said: "Doug's sense of adventure saw him join the merchant navy and included a period of time on the Queen Elizabeth.

"These voyages set the scene for a wanderlust which lasted for the rest of his life.

"He later worked in graphic design, which led to him becoming a freelance artist and owning two art galleries based in the city centre.

"His main theme was York and its architecture and he would often be seen with his easel in York's many beauty spots. In later years, he concentrated on watercolour scenes of his beloved Yorkshire Dales and Moors."

Sarah said her father ran marathons, climbed mountains and cycled everywhere, and travelled round the globe. He later became an ardent campaigner for the many causes close to his heart, in particular animal welfare and the preservation and protection of the city of York, including its historical buildings and sites.

"Doug volunteered as a York tour guide to share his enthusiasm and knowledge of York with others.

"Always generous with his causes, throughout his lifetime he donated most of his wealth to charity, benefitting both people and the environment."

She said he left behind his partner Carole, three children Paula, James and Sarah and six grandchildren.

"He will be greatly missed by all," she added.

*Mr Heald's funeral service will take place at York Crematorium at 11am next Friday, when donations can be made to the Friends of Clifton Backies.