BRIAN Coates, who produced York’s Festival of Remembrance for 15 years and was a leading light in the Rowntree Players, has died aged 90.

His son Steve said Brian used to dress as a Chelsea Pensioner and don a false moustache to the play the role of The Old Codger in the Royal British Legion’s annual festival at York Barbican.

Eileen Lavender, who was assistant producer to Brian for the Remembrance concerts and took over the job of producer on his retirement, said: “I think I was very lucky to work with such a talented person and to learn stage craft etc from him.

“Over the years he has raised thousands of pounds for the British Legion. What a talented and caring man. I am so glad I knew him.”

She said Brian, who worked at Rowntree Mackintosh for many years, began entertaining during his service in the Royal Army Pay Corps in troop shows, with comedy sketches and caricature drawings.

“He shared the bill on one occasion with Wee Georgie Wood at the Empire in York.

“He joined the Rowntree Players in 1955 in over 50 years. He did 35 parts, was co-director with Ted Atkinson for six pantos and then directed seven pantos. He was president of the Rowntree Players, and also secretary for British Theatre for the Disabled .”

Steve said his father used to draw caricatures of sports personalities for the Press’ sister newspaper the Gazette and Herald, including York City’s run to the FA Cup semi final in 1955, when one of his drawings was signed by all the players.

Brian was married to the late Brenda, had two sons, Steve and Jon, and five grandchildren.

*Brian’s funeral service, intended as a celebration of his life, will take place at Heworth Methodist Church at 1.30pm tomorrow, with donations in lieu of flowers to Dementia UK.