THE family of a colourful village blacksmith and dairyman who regularly herded his cows while riding his bike have paid tribute to him.

Joseph Alan Robinson, known as Alan, from Middleton-in-Teesdale, died suddenly at the age of 89 on January 7.

People gathered to pay their respects to the popular figure at his funeral on Friday, January 16.

He farmed at Town End since the age of 19 following the death of his father and supported his mother and spinster sisters for the remainder of their lives.

Mr Robinson was happily married to Winnie but he was devastated when she died in 1984, a month before the arrival of their first grandson.

His blacksmiths shop was the hub of the village and was where he manufactured livestock trailers, link boxes and other agricultural implements

His nephew’s wife, Judith Tarn, recalled that the smithy was a popular meeting point for an array of country characters.

She explained how Mr Robinson also shod horses and repaired and made metal tools for customers when required as well as being involved in many aspects of village life including the local football team.

“He had a herd of dairy cows, which observed the Highway Code as they ambled through Middleton between the fields and milking byre, with Alan riding on his bicycle behind them as he spoke to passers-by and controlled his herd by voice.

“He had a licence to bottle milk, and his sister, Annie, was a familiar sight as she delivered it on foot around the village at all times of day.

“He was similar in looks, dress and attitude to Fred Dibnah, in that he was interested in many things, particularly football, and was spotted in his youth by a football scout, but was not encouraged to take this path, as his father had other plans, a typical end result at that time.

“Alan played for Middleton Wanderers and took part in weekly friendly football get togethers at Ettersgill, in Upper Teesdale, with local farmers.

“Alan's distinctive laugh and voice could be heard coming from his busy workshop, and was a thrifty character who was totally individual.

“His passing has evoked many memories for those who remember him well.”

Mr Robinson leaves behind his daughter and son-in-law, Joyce and Dave Robinson, and their sons, Andrew and David.