THE funeral will take place tomorrow of Selby businessman Cecil (Ces) Chambers, who has died aged 89.

Cecil who was educated at Drax Grammar School, joined the family funeral directors and joinery business run by his father Harry on leaving school.

When his father retired in 1977 Ces took over the running of the business until taking early retirement when in his late fifties. A keen cricketer he played alongside his father Harry for Selby Londesborough Cricket Club in the former West Riding League, and later became an umpire.

He was a member and former chairman of the old Selby Round Table, and his wife Kitty was a member of the Selby Ladies Circle. He later joined the Selby 41 Club and was president in 2005 being a regular at its meetings up to two years ago. His love of sport also took in bowling and he was a part chairman of Selby Bowling Club.

His daughter Judy said: “He was a true gentleman who really enjoyed himself, particularly his holidays. As I youngster I adored him following him everywhere. He was also there for me and my two brothers.”

He was very fond of his grandchildren and loved them to bits.

A former member of Selby Round Table and 41 Club, Len Carpenter said: “Ces was a keen supporter of Round Table and the 41 Club, a great sports man always ready to arrange cricket matches against other Round Table clubs.”

Ces, a widower, leaves daughter Judy, sons Michael and Rodger, grandchildren and great grandchildren. His funeral will take place at St Wilfrid’s in Brayton, tomorrow, at 12.30pm, followed by a private cremation in York. Donations for Yorkshire Cancer Research can be made on a plate at the church.