A POPULAR historian from Bolton passed away aged 89.

Father-of-four Norman Hindley died on July 21 in Bolton Hospice.

Norman was a dear friend to many especially those at St Peters Church and Bolton Historical and Reminiscence Societies.

Norman also contributed to The Bolton News nostalgia section of the paper with his expertise.

The Astley Bridge born historian will be remembered by many people.

Margaret Koppens, secretary of Halliwell local history society said that there are not enough words to describe Norman.

She said: “Norman was so well known.

“He helped absolutely everybody and never moaned once. He loved what he did and that was marvellous.

“He was such a cheerful soul and well-respected within the historical societies across Bolton.”

Away from his historical role, Norman was a real family man.

He was the loving husband of Ruby and a super dad of Moira and Richard, Stewart and Dawn.

Norman was a much loved and treasured Pops to all his grandchildren and their families. A close brother-in-law and uncle.

Mrs Koppens added: “It is such a sad time for the family. Norman was a true gentleman and clearly loved his family very much.

“He always had a story to tell at when he introduced the talks for the society.

“He would talk about his family and he had a good sense of humour.

“On behalf of the historians across the area, I am confident in saying there aren’t enough words to describe him.

“He was a good all rounder.”

In one of his columns for The Bolton News, Norman wrote about growing up in Astley Bridge. He wrote: “I went to Castle Hill School and during the war pupils in their last year of school were asked if they would like to volunteer to go potato picking at Hall i’th’ Wood for up to two weeks.

“Needless to say there were many of the lads who offered their services because you not only got time off school but you got paid.”

The family funeral will take place on Wednesday August 5 in St Peters Church, Halliwell at 11am followed by burial in the churchyard at 11.30am.

A service of thanksgiving for Norman will be held at a later date. Family flowers only. Donations kindly accepted for Bolton Hospice via Bolton Coop Funeralcare Tel 01204 307151.