TRIBUTES have been paid to local stalwart George McCreedy MBE.

Mr McCreedy had his family with him when he passed and he leaves his wife, children and grandchildren.

There are very few community groups in Prudhoe that George did not champion at one time or another.  He was a major force behind Prudhoe Youth Football Club, Town Twinning and Prudhoe Youth, especially The East Centre, but he made time for any others too.

George was the driver of many Prudhoe Town Council events, and he rejoiced when he saw families flying rainbow kites over Prudhoe.

He was instrumental in putting together the very first Prudhoe Town Fair and Christmas Lights displays of days gone by long before being a councillor.   

Sarah Eden, of Prudhoe Town Council, wrote: "If you were doing good things in our town, George was behind you all the way, giving his time and where possible funding.

"George was without judgement, especially of young people.  His aim was to engage them, support them and to make a difference to their lives.  For decades George did exactly that, and there will be countless young people for whom he had an impact.  Whether that was a simple youth session playing pool, organising a trip to the ice-rink, a music concert, funding sports equipment so they could pursue their dream, providing a job, or simply good old-fashioned advice – George McCreedy delivered."

"George would make things happen; if you had an idea, he would support it. Often people deliberate, miss the bigger picture, and look for reasons not to do things, not George."

"COVID was especially devastating for George and Judy as they isolated from early March, only seeing close family through the window or over Zoom.  It speaks to their selfless characters and commitment to Prudhoe that they frequently spoke out to commend those who were volunteering, wishing they could also.  They had both done more than their fair share of community support over the years, and they needed to sit this one out."

"George will be fondly remembered for many things and those who have heard of Prudhoe, will no doubt have heard of George McCreedy.  George’s lasting legacy, as well as his amazing family, is without a doubt the young people he helped over many years.  Those who dropped out, disengaged, felt lost and without hope, or those who just needed a safe space.  Those who needed encouragement and support to follow their dreams and aspirations, and those who just wanted to hang-out and enjoy time with their friends.  George McCreedy understood all of that, which is why in 1997 he received an MBE for services to young people."

"Cllr Bryan Futers (Town Mayor) recounted George as a great friend and colleague on Prudhoe Town Council, who always put the town first.  Fellow Councillors have spoken of George’s commitment and dedication and his generosity, always willing to give more time."

"The Georges of the world do not come along very often.  George was a true gentleman and an absolute legend, who will be much missed but never forgotten."