George Rowe, who resurrected the missing banners for Houghton and Lambton collieries at the Durham Miners' Gala, has passed away aged 78 after suffering from cancer and emphysema.

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The popular character, known affectionately as The Bannerman, was a key figure at the annual Gala as well as a tireless fund-raiser for the community in Houghton.

Today, his daughter Kathryn Ward described her father as a loving family man who was the "perfect grandad" to Greg 16, and Anna, 13.

"He was always thinking of his family," said the 49-year-old.

"He was so caring. He thought the world of us. He was always there for other people. He'd raise money for the miners' fund and, even though he was in poor health, he completed a sponsored swim."

As well as fund-raising, Mr Rowe was known for his film and TV extra work.

He featured in shows such as Grafters, Crocodile Shoes and Our Friends in the North as well as films including Jude and Nasty Neighbours.

"He loved his extra work," said Kathryn. "He'd do work on TV and films, but he was also known as the local Santa until he became too poorly to keep doing it."

This summer it was feared Mr Rowe, who also suffered from diabetes, would be unable to attend the Gala after being admitted to Sunderland Royal Hospital.But only days before its start, he was discharged and proudly led the Houghton and Lambton banners through Durham City.

Pat Simmons, a friend of Mr Rowe and secretary of the Banner Group, which they founded to resurrect the banners for Houghton and Lambton collieries, said: "He was always determined to attend the Gala. Nothing was going to stop him.

"He was very passionate about keeping our mining heritage alive and taking part in the Gala was always very important to him."

TV star Ricky Tomlinson, a friend of Mr Rowe, also returned for the second year running to support his pal.

Mr Rowe met Royle Family star Ricky nine years ago when he was an extra on location at Whitley Bay and the pair struck up a firm friendship.Ms Simmons, added: "He was always looking for something interesting to do, something different. That's what took him into extra work. He loved every minute of it."

George died on October 15. His funeral will be held at St Michael's Church, Houghton, on Wednesday at 1pm.

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