A former Telegraph & Argus community correspondent and local stalwart has died after a short illness.

Alex Robinson passed away at his home in Harper Avenue, Idle, surrounded by his family, on January 6, aged 90.

Mr Robinson, a retired pharmacist, was the T&A's community news reporter for Idle and Thackley throughout the 1990s. He retired from the role after suffering a stroke in 1999.

His widow Vera, 84, said Mr Robinson, a former chairman of Bradford North Labour Party, had been a popular figure throughout the area.

"He was a quiet man but very popular," she said.

"If anyone wanted to know anything about Idle or Thackley they would come to him."

Esholt-born Mr Robinson attended Salts Grammar School before becoming a pharmacy apprentice, qualifying in 1937 at Edinburgh University.

During the Second World War, he worked in the Intelligence Corps travelling throughout Europe and India, and was involved in the negotiations to free prisoners taken during the Arnhem landings.

He travelled to Belgium on several occasions during the 1950s and 60s to meet up with friends he made in the country during the conflict.

After the war, Mr Robinson ran his own pharmacy on Kirkstall Road in Leeds, retiring in the late 1970s.

Mr Robinson served as a governor of Greenfield School in Idle, was president of the Idle Musical Union, and a member of the Trinity Hand Bell Ringers of Idle and of Idle and Thackley Heritage Group. He also played chess for Yorkshire.

His daughter, Janine Robinson, said: "Dad got to know everyone in the area as he was involved with so many groups.

"He was a kind and gentle man who would help anyone with anything.

"People used him as a font of local knowledge. You had to book an appointment to speak to my dad.

"He was a big fan of Bradford."

Articles written by Mr Robinson, a published writer, were used in books on the history of the city.

Mr Robinson enjoyed walking in the Yorkshire Dales and Lake District, painting, reading and gardening.

He leaves wife Vera, daughters Janine and Jennifer, and grand-daughter Gemma.

A funeral service will take place at Upper Chapel United Reform Church, Idle, on Monday at 2.30pm.

Donations may be made to the Salvation Army and British Heart Foundation. A collection box will be made available at the service.