'CALL me Roy' - that's what Lord Mason of Barnsley told staff at the care home he moved into just three weeks ago.
Lord Mason died on Sunday evening with his family by his side- a day after his 91st birthday.When he was admitted to Highgrove Care Home at Stairfoot the manger had asked the life peer what the staff should call him - 'Call me Roy' was the immediate reply.
His daughters Susan and Jill say that answer was typical of the man for whom 'everything was Barnsley' and who 'was just down to earth'.
Roy Mason played a key role in ensuring Barnsley Hospital was built. He launched and sponsored free pensioners film shows in the town more than 30 years ago, he raised funds to create facilities for disabled anglers and supported countless local charities.
A funeral service for family and friends will be held on Wednesday at Ardsley crematorium at 12.10pm.
** There is a tribute to Lord Mason and his work in Barnsley in the Barnsley Chronicle newspaper, dated April 24. **
