TRIBUTES have been made to a local historian who has died at the age of 71.

Bill Colley, of Byers Green, near Spennymoor, devoted much of his life to ensuring that the heritage of nearby villages is not forgotten by future generations.

He produced matchstick models of dozens of industrial and landmark buildings, which he displayed in local schools and community halls, and wrote booklets about local history. Many of his models have been kept in the archives at County Hall in Durham.

Mr Colley, who died a week last Saturday after a short illness, was instrumental in honouring the work of eighteenth century astronomer Thomas Wright, who lived in Byers Green, with a monument.

Mr Colley had lived in the area since his parents Rebecca and Leslie moved to Todd Hills from Northumberland when he was young. He and his wife Greta, who passed away eight years ago, have two daughters Sharon Scott, of Kingston Upon Hull, and Pamela King, of South Wales.

Mrs Scott said: "He was a special man and will be a huge miss to his family, friends and the community. Ensuring that the area's history and our roots are not forgotten was very important to him and I hope his work has ensured that aim lives on."