TRIBUTES have been paid to a ‘passionate campaigner’ known as ‘Mr Clitheroe’.

Peter Moore, 75, passed away peacefully at his home in the town on Wednesday.

The grandfather-of-four was well-known for his work as chairman of Ribble Valley Rail and the Torchlight Procession and Fireworks Display working group and an organiser of Clitheroe Festival Weekend.

A survivor of several heart attacks, Mr Moore was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2009.

Last year he became the face of ‘Lung Cancer – Get if Off Your Chest’, an NHS campaign designed to make people aware of the early symptoms of lung cancer.

Ribble Valley MP Nigel Evans led the way in praising the retired heating engineer’s contribution to the town. Mr Evans said: “I have always thought of Peter as ‘Mr Clitheroe’.

“Peter was instrumental in the vibrancy that Clitheroe now enjoys and the town was always at his very heart.

“He was a passionate campaigner on the railways and it is in no small part due to his selfless determination that Clitheroe station and the line is as successful as it is. Indeed he pioneered the steam train excursions to Carlisle.

“He was hugely popular with a mischievous sense of humour, incredibly entertaining and well informed.

“Peter was inspirational, led from the front and there is no doubt in my mind that a void has been created by his passing.

“The best tribute to Peter’s memory would be to continue his great work and ensure that Clitheroe and the railway go from strength to strength.”

Mr Moore leaves wife Joan, children Pam and Andy, and four grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at St Mary’s Parish Church in the town followed by a woodland burial at Clitheroe Cemetery on a date to be confirmed.

Mr Moore had requested no black be worn.