It was with great sadness that the staff of Keighley Library received the news of the death of Ian Walkden. We all got to know Ian through his work as Co Director of ‘The Men of Worth Project’. Ian has been a major contributor to Keighley local history over many years from showcasing displays of work in the library to supporting us on our annual Heritage Day. Ian has also contributed massively to saving our local war memorials and it was also through his diligence and perseverance that many unmarked soldier’s graves have received a military headstone through the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Nothing was ever too much trouble and he would always come in with a friendly smile and we the staff always enjoyed chatting to him, he was a knowledgeable, reliable, kind and helpful gentleman and we shall all miss him very much indeed. We are not surprised that in other areas of his life such as the Keighley Rugby Union Club, he was held in such high regard, a true local legend indeed.