JOHN Crossley, the 36-year-old Malton businessman who died last month in a skiing accident, had a distinguished army career behind him, including time served during the first Gulf conflict.

John, who was killed on April 21 during a family holiday in France, was born in Westow, the only son of Colonel Nick and Xandra Crossley. He went to prep school in Aysgarth in the Yorkshire Dales, before going to Eton and then Newcastle University to study agriculture and food marketing.

After Sandhurst, John was commissioned into the 9/12 Lancers, his family regiment.

As well as the Gulf, he also served on the streets of Belfast and in Bosnia and was a member of the army ski team. He was adjutant of his regiment for two years from 1994 to 1995.

John's army career was summed up by his commanding officer from the RHQ RAC Training Regiment at Bovington in Dorset, who wrote: "Of all the adjutants who have passed through during the past 12 years (and there have been many) Johnny Crossley was by far the best. He managed to stride that fine line between duty and enjoying life to the full, which so many people fail to do."

He left the Army in 1997, as a captain, and married Sarah Freeland and a year later they emigrated to New Zealand.

When twin daughters Tinika and Mikaela were born they returned to England and acquired the catering business, Simply Delicious, based in Market Street, Malton.

A close family friend said: "John's untimely death has touched a huge number of people from all walks of life. His open, easy-going manner and charm, in particular his unique sense of humour and endearing chuckle, will undoubtedly be greatly missed."

More than 800 people attended his funeral at St. Mary's Priory, Old Malton, where his family has worshipped for many years. Mr Crossley was buried at Westow, near to where his widow and two children now live.

Updated: 10:11 Friday, May 23, 2003