Ripon remembers a man known to many as Santa, today.

Ian Collinson, who died of cancer last month, aged 66, was respected member of the toy industry for more than 40 years.

Friends and family will gather at the city's cathedral this afternoon to celebrate the life of a man committed to both his commercial interests and the community.

Mr Collinson left Ripon Grammar School in 1954, originally planning to go to university.

However, when his father, Fred, fell ill he stepped in to run the family toy business, despite the fact that he was only 19.

He remained with the company once his father returned to work, playing a leading role in the development of the business, which went on to open shops in Malton and Harrogate.

Mr Collinson also served on the board of the Toymaster group for 20 years.

Tthe company which now owns the Harrogate Collin-son's store, sold to Beatties in 1988.

The Malton branch of Collinson's was also acquired by the manageress, with the Ripon store finally closing in 1999.

Mr Collinson was a member of Ripon Chamber of Trade and a staunch campaigner for improvements on the roads around the city.

The thanksgiving service at the cathedral begins at 1.30pm. A collection will be taken in aid of cancer charities.