A TALENTED pianist and vocalist, war veteran and former farmer has died at the age of 89.

Mourners will today congregate for the funeral of Harold Rewcastle Herdman, more commonly known as Sam, who was president of Darlington Operatic Society.

Kevin Murray, from the society, said: "The chairman, committee and membership of Darlington Operatic Society are saddened to announce the death of our beloved and dearly respected president.

"A talented pianist and an accomplished vocalist, Sam served as a parish organist and choirmaster for more than 40 years."

Mr Herdman was born in 1918, in Aldbrough St John, North Yorkshire.

He volunteered to join the Army and served in the Shropshire Yeomanry during the Second World War.

He saw action in North Africa, the Middle East and Italy, where he remained until 1946 and reached the rank of sergeant.

He fought in the Battle of Monte Casino. After leaving the Army, he joined the Royal British Legion. He returned to the North-East, where he undertook a number of jobs in the agricultural industry.

He met his wife, Joan, a farmer's daughter, through his work. He also served as regional secretary of the National Association of Master Bakers.

The couple married in 1958 and had two daughters, Zoe and Cecily.

Mr Herdman had been a member of Darlington Operatic Society since 1952.

He was elected to the committee two years later. He served in a number of positions, including treasurer for 20 years and chairman five times. He held the post of president since 1989.