A CLOSE-knit Ryedale community and the district council that governs it were today mourning the loss of "Mr Sheriff Hutton," who has died, aged 69.

Tributes were paid today to Alan Farnaby, former leader of Ryedale District Council and clerk to Sheriff Hutton Parish Council for more than 40 years.

Coun Farnaby died on Sunday, almost two months to the day since he was re-elected to the district council.

Former colleague Brian Cottam said Coun Farnaby was "a true gentleman."

He said: "He really was 'Mr Sheriff Hutton,' he gave huge service to that community and to Ryedale as a whole. He was a real man of the people.

"Though we were on different sides of the political divide we used to work well together and I will miss him on both a personal and professional basis. Ryedale owes him a great debt."

Elizabeth Shields was one of three district councillors who divided Coun Farnaby's work between them when he fell ill, the others being Robert Wainwright and Allin Jenkins.

She said: "Alan was loved and respected by all members of the council and staff at Ryedale House. A thoroughly good man, he will be missed by us all."

Robin Wardell, a former district councillor and friend of Coun Farnaby, said: "He did a lot of work for the village and will be greatly missed.

"We are all rallying round at the moment and doing what we can for the family."

Sue Redfern, assistant chief executive of Ryedale District Council, said: "We were most saddened and upset to hear the news of Coun Farnaby's death.

"He was a hard-working and well-liked person who will be greatly missed by both staff and councillors.

"He was a true gentleman and always had time and a kind word for everyone.

"Alan had a long record of service to the community of Ryedale. He had been a district councillor since 1991 and was chairman of Ryedale District Council in 1996/7 He also represented the council on many outside organizations.

"In his service to the council he was resolute and steadfast and respected by all. His dedication to the communities of Ryedale was totally unwavering.

"Our sympathies go out to his family."

Coun Farnaby worked with Eric Hayhurst, another Sheriff Hutton resident, to produce the monthly Sheriff Hutton News.

Regarded as one of the most successful community magazines in Yorkshire, it has been running for 33 years. Today Mr Hayhurst said it would continue.

Coun Farnaby's funeral, for family and friends, will be held at Sheriff Hutton Methodist Church, at 2pm on Friday.

A service of thanksgiving to celebrate his life will be held at the Church of St Helen and the Holy Cross on July 12, at 2pm.

Updated: 11:05 Wednesday, July 02, 2003