LLANGOLLEN Railway has paid tribute to one of its founding members whose contribution, they say, was 'immeasurable'.

The railway has confirmed the death of Bill Shakespeare, who had been involved from its creation as the Deeside and Flintshire Railway Preservation Society in the late 1970’s.

He gave a lifetime’s dedicated service to the railway as a volunteer and served as Chairman of the LR Trust between 1976 and 1998.

He was awarded an MBE for services to the railway upon his retirement as Chairman in 1998 and had continued to support the Trust in an honorary role as President.

A statement from Llangollen Railway paying tribute read: "It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that our Railway has to announce the passing of our President, Bill Shakespeare."

The statement continued: "Bill’s contribution to Llangollen Railway is immeasurable and as well as one of the founding members of our Trust, he has been a significant contributor to the preservation movement. As Chairman between 1976 and 1998, Bill also received an MBE for his services to the Railway.

"Bill will be sorely missed by everyone that knew him and those who had the pleasure to have worked alongside him since the inauguration of the Railway back in the 70’s. We express our utmost condolences to Hazel, Susan and Gillian at this very sad time.

"Thank you Bill – we will endeavour to follow the fine examples that you set."

Corwen Museum also paid tribute to Mr Shakespeare, adding: "Very sorry to read this, he was such a driving force in getting to where we are today. Sending sincere condolences to the family."