Production editor, 80, dies after battle with cancer

Colin Sheard was born in Dewsbury and moved to Lancaster when he was 11.

After a successful time at Lancaster Royal Grammar School, Colin joined city chemical company Lansil, working in the laboratories, before being called up for national service.

He spent his national service in Chester working in the stores before returning to Lansil to find his old job had been taken and so he retrained as Lansil’s own photographer.

A chance encounter with Lancaster Guardian chief photographer Harry Hodgson saw Colin swap careers and join the newspaper’s photography team. His career within the newspaper was varied; after photography he took on the coveted role of sports editor which combined his love of sport with a passion for local newspapers.

He then became chief sub editor before retiring at 57 as Lancaster and Morecambe Newspapers’ production editor.During his time on the newspaper he made many lifelong friends and was happy spending time mentoring young reporters.

Away from work, Colin married Jean in 1961 and they had two children, Geoff and Gill.

Colin maintained a lifetime’s support of Huddersfield Town and Yorkshire cricket and during his retirement travelled to Australia with Geoff to watch an England test match in Perth.

Latterly Colin was secretary of Caton Cricket Club, a role that also included occasional ground maintenance, and he was treasurer of Caton sports association

He and Jean also holidayed in Cyprus each year until his illness was diagnosed two years ago.

Colin died in St John’s Hospice on Friday, September 5 – his 80th birthday.

He leaves wife Jean, children Geoff and Gill and four grandchildren, Richard, Jack, Hannah and Ruby.

His funeral takes place on Friday, September 12 at Lancaster and Morecambe Crematorium at 10.15am. All donations to St John’s Hospice or Yorkshire Air Ambulance.