The man affectionately known as "Mr Holgate", whose aim was to put Holgate on the map, has died.

David Lodge, 69, paid money from his own pocket for Holgate road signs, to stop the district being confused with Acomb, York.

A deeply proud Yorkshire man, he put of a lot of energy into keeping the name of Holgate alive.

He wrote letters to the Evening Press, estate agents and other publications when Acomb was quoted in place of Holgate.

He earned the title "Mr Holgate", for his campaigning for the local community.

A keen author and historian, Mr Lodge compiled a history of the Holgate Mill and surrounding area, and several other publications.

He qualified as a teacher at York St John College, following a career in farming. He taught at Selby, and at Woldgate School, Pocklington, until 1999. He was also a company director in the family business.

During his retirement, Mr Lodge furthered his interests as a trustee of Poppleton Road Memorial Hall, and former secretary of Acomb Conservative Club.

His interests included making miniature grandfather clocks, of which he produced 50. He also made a large key for the door of Sheriff Hutton Hall.

Mr Lodge leaves a widow, Judith, a son, Mark, daughter Becky, and grandchildren Edward and Sofie. He died peacefully in St Leonard's Hospice.

Mrs Lodge said: "He was a very clever man and he'll be sadly missed."

Mr Lodge collected large flags, and a Union flag flew at half-mast outside his home. A Yorkshire flag flew at half-mast at Acomb Conservative Club.

The funeral service will take place on Monday, at St Stephen's Church, Acomb.

Updated: 10:04 Thursday, March 13, 2003