A RESPECTED teacher, former mayor of Wilton and barber shop singer who was described as a pleasant, warm and sociable man has died of cancer aged 89.

Second World War veteran Albert Belk was well known for his participation in town life including appearances with the Wilton Church Choir, Salisbury Operatic Society and Tisbury Arts Group.

As a teacher his career at Wilton Secondary Modern and Middle Schools spanned 23 years and helped pupils achieve their potential as well as organising popular foreign trips.

But he was perhaps best known for founding the popular Ali Barber group of barbershop singers who played all over the local area for 43 years.

Albert Belk was born on May 1, 1926, in Sheffield, Yorkshire, where he grew up. During the war he served with the Irish Rangers landing on Sword Beach during the D-Day landings. He would later chair Wilton branch of the Royal British Legion.

Moving to Wilton in 1962 after securing a job at the school, he soon involved himself in local politics serving on both the Town and District Council before becoming the last mayor of Wilton Borough Council which became defunct in 1977.

Following retirement, Albert worked in Riverside Children’s home where he continued to positively impact on young people’s lives.

Outside of work and politics his interests included sport, wine making and creating jewellery from gem stones he had found.

A man who enjoyed writing stories and poetry, Albert took part in many theatrical performances.

With a fantastic sense of humour he enjoyed the written and spoken word.

Albert Belk passed away peacefully at Salisbury District Hospital on June 22.

He is survived by his wife Betty, two children, Elizabeth and Andrew, two grandchildren, Thom and Charlotte and a great-granddaughter Scarlett.

His funeral will take place on Friday, July 10 at midday in St Mary and St Nicholas Church, Wilton, followed by a burial at Wilton Cemetery.

Donations can be made to the Thursday Club and Stroke Club of Wilton via funeral director Chris White.