DECORATED war hero turned barrister Geoffrey Delaroy-Hall has died at the age of 81.

Mr Delaroy-Hall, of Arrathorne, near Hunton, was a wartime RAF bomber pilot who worked his way up through the ranks and was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Born in 1921 in Dulwich, London, he joined the RAF as an aircraftsman and rose to the rank of wing commander.

He flew Halifax heavy bombers with 78 Squadron from Linton-on-Ouse and from Breighton, near Selby, and completed 47 operations.

After the war he stayed in the RAF for ten years, based in the Far East, before studying law in London, qualifying as a barrister specialising in company law.

While living and working in London, he made a name as an amateur racing driver. He also married, but the marriage ended in divorce after nine years.

He retired 20 years ago to his Arrathorne bungalow.

He suffered four strokes before he was diagnosed with lung cancer 18 months ago.

His funeral took place at St Mary's Church, Hornby, near Bedale.

Before his illness Mr Delaroy-Hall spent a year giving free legal advice at Richmond Volunteer Centre.