TRIBUTES have been paid to a local character who was well-known in the area.

Ian Pilmoor, who was 80, played a major role in the Cundalls’ antique, railwayana, household and farm sales for many years.

Auctioneer Keith Waters said Mr Pilmoor always had a smile and had something to say to everyone.

“Ian would always be the first to arrive at sales and the last to leave, showing great dedication to his work at all times,” he said.

“He was latterly known for helping out in the cattle market at Malton where he showed great commitment to parking cars and looking after the wagon wash, helping out at the farmers’ markets.

“Ian certainly knew how to sort out traffic congestion. He was not always the most popular for not allowing people unconnected to the market to park there on market days. One of his favourite sayings was ‘I’m sorry bonny lass but you cannot park there’. He had a knack for inventing affectionate quirky nicknames for people that would often stick.”

Keith said Ian was a great family man and thought the world of his wife, Thora, his daughter Jayne who is married to Bobby, and his grandson, Martin.

“Ian was a wonderful gentleman and a first class man. He would help anyone in any situation,” he said.

“Ian was honest and very hard working. He will certainly be missed by the farming community on a Tuesday and Friday.”

Ian Pilmoor’s funeral was held yesterday (Monday) at Malton Baptist Church.