DAVE Wiltshire, treasurer of the Blackdown Hills Skittles League for more than 30 years, passed away at Musgrove Park Hospital at the age of 79 following a long illness.

Dave, who lived at Hemyock, leaves behind a widow Andrea (Andy) and daughter Emma.

The Blackdown Hills website says: "It is with much sadness to tell you of the passing of Dave Wiltshire, a former captain of the mighty Bashers.

"The Bashers are an original team founded by the landlord of the Catherine Wheel Mr Keith Root, in 1984, having put up a poster of this new skittles league starting. He was so inundated with players that it was enough for two teams!

"Dave was a fantastic sportsman, great captain for the best part of 25 years, win or loss!! And he loved the banter.

"He was treasurer of the league for more than 30 years and a keen committee member since the late 80s. RIP."

His funeral will be held at Taunton Deane Crematorium on Friday, January 19 (11a.m.).