Friends of Ilkley Riverside Parks have planted a memorial tree to honour the memory of their much-loved volunteer, Paul Timson.
The ceremony, attended by family, friends, and fellow volunteers, took place in Ilkley Riverside Parks, where Paul gave countless hours of his time and energy.
Paul was a dedicated member of the volunteer group, helping to care for the park and improve it for the benefit of both wildlife and the community. His commitment, warmth, and generosity of spirit left a lasting impact, and the new tree will serve as a living tribute to his contribution.
Chair of Friends of Ilkley Riverside Parks, Ed Duguid, said
“Paul was at the heart of our group, always ready to help and always with a smile. This tree will grow and thrive just as Paul helped the park to do, and it will stand as a reminder of how much he meant to us all.”
The memorial tree, a Bird Cherry, has been planted in a prominent location in the park near the pétanque terrain, chosen as a place where visitors can pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of nature – values that Paul himself cherished.

[A tree has been planted in memory of Paul Timson - pictured right]
Janet, Paul’s widow, commented
“It will be good to visit Paul’s tree in the years to come and to think of him working in the park, which gave him a lot of pleasure.”
Friends of Ilkley Riverside Parks continue their work to protect and enhance the green spaces along the River Wharfe, and Paul’s legacy will remain an inspiration to everyone involved.

Ilkley Pre-School faces closure without urgent financial lifeline
MP shares update on redevelopment of Airedale Hospital
Age UK shop is Ilkley appeals for donations as stocks are low
Fuggle & Golding saved by Horsforth Brewery
Joanna seeks life-extending treatment after brain tumour diagnosis
Winners revealed for Ilkley Business Awards 2026
Airedale Hospital charity hits the road for its fifth annual World Book Day adventure
Yorkshire Water, what is happening behind all those blue hoardings?
Ilkley Cemetery's Beanlands Parade gates repairs
Local MP backs campaign to protect affordable residential experiences for young people
Claire Baxter Gallery announces closure in Ilkley
Ilkley's Annual Town Meeting and Citizen Awards 2026
Outside the Box and Ilkley Live make music together
New drone will be used 'wherever it is needed' to stop fly tipping
Calendar of events announced at Burley-in-Wharfedale Community Trust AGM
Experience the magic of opera at charity gala in Ilkley
Your Local Experiences earns thousands for local businesses in first month
Four Ilkley businesses in finals of Leeds Oliver Awards 2026
Ilkley Wharfedale Rotary involved with eradicating Polio worldwide
International Women’s Day talk to celebrate ‘Brilliant Bradford Lasses’


