Geoffrey Beresford Hanson

Geoffrey Beresford Hanson of Allsprings Drive, Great Harwood, sadly passed away in the East Lancashire Hospice, on Thursday 23^rd November 2017, aged 90 years.

In his younger years Geoffrey attended the Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, on leaving school he went to work in the family business of animal feed and haulage which at that time was known as Fred Hanson & Sons Ltd.  He also served in the RAF as a clerk in the Suez Canal Zone from 1947-1949.  Geoffrey continued to run the family business along with his late daughter Angela from the Victoria Mill, Plough Yard. He was still active in running the business even in his 90^th year, up until about 2 months ago.  During his life

Geoffrey was best known however for his life-long commitment to his home town of Great Harwood, he was an absolute stalwart and much respected member of his local community.  He was heavily involved in the success of the Great Harwood Show, serving as Chairman of the Organising Committee and then later as Life President for over 50 years.  His familiar face was also often seen when walking out and about, especially around Memorial Park with his beloved West Highland Terrier Pippa, or having lunch or attending events held at Churchfield House.  In recognition of his services to the local community Geoffrey was awarded the title of Honorary Freeman of The Borough in May earlier this year which was presented by the Mayor of Hyndburn at Accrington Town Hall.  In the following month of June he attended the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace accompanied by his nephew Michael where they also spent a couple of days sightseeing in London, including a trip on the London Eye.

Geoffrey was a member of the Ribblesdale Farmers Group for most of his life, and had many other different hobbies and interests, he was also a passionate Conservative and was involved in both the Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Conservative parties and an executive member of his local Conservative Association.

The beloved husband of the late Margaret, a treasured father of the late Angela and a dearly loved uncle of Michael.

Geoffrey will also be very sadly missed by all his family, farming community cousins, friends, colleagues and neighbours, especially Julie and all those who rallied around during the last few weeks.

His funeral service will be held (tomorrow) on Saturday 2^nd December 2017 at 11.00am at St James’ Church, Altham prior to interment in the churchyard. Family flowers only please but donations may be made in memory of Geoffrey for Churchfield House, Great Harwood, further enquires please to Paul Barton at Barton & Hallworth Funeral Service, The Old Foxhill, 136-8 Union Road, Oswaldtwistle. BB5 3DR.  Tel: 01254 390542.