Tributes paid to theatre stalwart Gary Holmes

Gary Holmes was the President of Ilkley Musical Theatre Society [Photo: IMTS]

Tributes have been paid to local thespian, Gary Holmes, following his sudden death at the weekend.

Mr Holmes died on Sunday after becoming unwell outside Yeadon Town Hall Theatre, where he had been attended rehearsals. In a statement the theatre said: "When Gary became unwell outside the Town Hall, members of the Yeadon Town Hall team immediately came to his aid and did everything they possibly could to help him. Tragically, despite their efforts, Gary could not be saved."

Paying tribute of one of it members, Yeadon Town Hall Theatre described Gary as 'a much-loved member of its theatre family who brought laughter, joy and magic to audiences for many years.' He was known as the theatre's wonderful Father Christmas, and before that, as the much loved Dame in its pantomimes.

Gary was Father Christmas at Yeadon Town Hall [Photo: Yeadon Town Hall Theatre]

Gary was also the President of the Ilkley Musical Theatre Society, who have released this statement: "We are shocked and incredibly saddened to hear of the unexpected passing of our President, but more importantly, our friend, Gary Holmes.

"Gary has been involved onstage and off with IMTS for a number of years alongside his wife Sally; taking on the role of “El Presidente” almost two years ago.

"We will miss his warm heart, his support, and his wonderful humour.

"We send our love and support to Sally and his loved ones."

Along with paying tribute, the Ilkley Community Network said on its socials away from the stage, Gary was a retired firefighter who dedicated many years to serving his community. He was also a passionate supporter of amateur theatre, giving so much of his time and energy to entertaining others and supporting the performing arts through NODA and the many local groups he was involved with.

Ilkley Upstagers posted this statement: "We are so saddened to hear of the passing of our dear friend Gary Holmes, another much-loved member of our local theatre community.

"Gary was well known and loved by so many of us at Upstagers. His warmth, wonderful humour and mischievous smile made him a joy to be around, both on and off the stage. We also had the pleasure of sharing the stage with him in 'A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum' in 2011.

"Our hearts go out to Sally, his family and his many, many friends. Gary will be hugely missed.

"Thank you for the laughter and the memories."

Theatre groups across the region pay tribute following the death of Gary Holmes [Photo: Yeadon Town Hall Theatre]

Darren Smith, Regional Councillor for NODA North East said: "Amateur theatre friends across the region are saddened to learn of the sudden passing of Gary Holmes on Sunday 11th October. With friends in many, many societies and groups Gary was a popular and welcome performer and audience member as well as being President of Ilkley Musical Theatre Society.

"There are lots of wonderful tributes being paid and the one from Yeadon Town Hall Theatre is especially poignant.

"Like many people who have shared a stage with Gary I know how much he will be missed both on stage and off. Our hearts go out to Sally, his daughters and all his family and friends."