There has been widespread sadness in Teesdale following the death of “Barney legend” Denis ‘Denny’ Raine.
Born and raised in Barnard Castle, Mr Raine was a much-loved and respected member of the community who died on June 27 aged 82 following a long illness.
He touched many people’s lives over the years through his time growing up in town, through his employment at Glaxo, and as a local serving fireman in Barnard Castle for 20 years.
Following early retirement through ill health and the death of his beloved wife Martha in 2000, he turned his focus to helping preserve the history of the town.
He did that through his collection of old photos and his very popular homemade DVDs which depicted life in the Barnard Castle through the ages.
Mr Raine was also a keen supporter of the Barney Meet and would set up a display of his photograph collection each year, as well as the publication of several history books with all funds donated back to the Meet committee.
He is survived by his sons Stephen and Gary and daughters-in-law Jayne and Gill as well as his much-loved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Speaking on behalf of the family, his younger son Gary said: “Dad was a kind-hearted and generous man who over the years made many friends with his wonderful sense of humour.
“He was a devoted family man who will be sorely missed. As many have said, he was a local Barney legend!”
