A RENOWNED Bolton solicitor has died after losing his battle with cancer.

Tom Arkwright, who lived for more than 20 years in Heaton, died at his home in Limbrick, near Chorley, where he moved after retiring from Cyril Morris Arkwright in 1992.

Mr Arkwright, who was 77, joined the firm in 1955, becoming a partner in 1957 and a senior partner in 1971.

He represented many businesses in Bolton, including the Bolton Evening News and a number of the town’s cotton mills.

Mr Arkwright leaves his wife, Muriel, a son and five daughters.

Mrs Arkwright said: “He was a very considerate, upright man who loved his family. We had a long and happy life together, and he was a good husband and a good father.”

Mr Arkwright was well known in Bolton through his work and was also heavily involved in civic life. He was a member of the joint standing committee of the Law Society and HM Land Registry, president of Bolton Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Bolton Law Society.

He also served as chairman of Bolton West Conservative Association, deputy president of Bolton Coronary Care, honorary solicitor for the Northern Mill Engine Society and president emeritus of Bolton Catholic Musical and Choral Society.

He enjoyed listening to music and maintaining his garden at Ravenhurst, Heaton, which was open to the public due to its historical interest.

julian.thorpe@the boltonnews.co.uk