Tributes have been paid to Ilkley swimming coach Ben Pollard who passed away on October 27.

Brian Walter Pollard was born on July 25 1949 and attended Nottingham High School where he gained the nickname Ben, which stuck. While at school he played football, rugby and swam at county level.

He came to Bradford in 2007 as department manager for Bradford Aquatics and joined Ilkley Swimming Club.

Karen Graham, chairman of the club said: “Ben’s real gift as a coach was his ability with individuals, his very sensitive and thinking side which meant that he understood each swimmer and what they needed, and we hope to protect this legacy at Ilkley Swimming Club.”