Tributes to Leeds dad-of-two and firefighter Gary Holmes killed in Yeadon crash

Tributes have been paid for retired firefighter and dad-of-two Gary Holmes

A man who died after crashing into a lamppost in Yeadon has been named as a dad-of-two and retired Leeds firefighter.

Gary Holmes, 74, died after attending rehearsals for Yeadon Town Hall Theatre when he crashed into a lamppost outside Yeadon Community Health Centre in South View Road. He was behind the wheel of a black Land Rover Freelander when he crashed on Sunday, October 11.

West Yorkshire Police say he received medical treatment at the scene but died soon after medics arrived. Yeadon Town Hall Theatre paid tribute to Gary, who was one of their members, on social media.

He was a loved community figure, well-known for his recent roles as Father Christmas, his past performances as a pantomime Dame, and his work with The National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA). The theatre staff, who attempted to save him, expressed their heartfelt condolences to his wife Sally and two daughters.

In a statement, they said: "It is with the heaviest of hearts that we share the devastating news of the sudden passing of our dear friend, Gary Holmes, who sadly died yesterday outside Yeadon Town Hall Theatre.

"For many people in recent years, Gary was best known as our wonderful Father Christmas, and before that, as the much loved Dame in our pantomimes. Gary was a huge part of the Yeadon Town Hall Theatre family, having spent many years treading the boards and bringing laughter, joy and a little magic to audiences of all ages."

Described as a "passionate champion of amateur theatre", Gary was also heavily involved with performing arts charity NODA and dedicated much of his life to supporting the performing arts. He was also a retired firefighter.

The theatre company descibed how, on the morning of his death, Garyt had "poignantly", only just attended rehearsals for their Christmas Spectacular the, something he "absolutely adored being part of".

They said that Gary became unwell outside the Town Hall, staff members immediately came to his aid and "did everything they possibly could to help him" but Gary could not be saved.

The statement continued: "Gary gave so much to theatre, to his community and to everyone around him. His warmth, enthusiasm and unmistakable sense of fun will be sorely missed.

"Thank you, Gary, for the laughter, the memories and the magic; though the stage will be quieter without you, the joy you brought to so many will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Gary. With love from everyone at Yeadon Town Hall Theatre."

Anyone with any information should contact police on 101, quoting log number 1143 of October 11.