WITH a warm smile and a cheerful wave, he could brighten up anyone’s day.

Derek Armstrong (75), also known as ‘Huggy’ among locals, was well known throughout West Tynedale as a coach driver, but also a friend to many.

Behind the wheel for numerous local tour operators, Derek became a household name among locals and tourists for his expert local knowledge and kindness.

After growing up in Cumbria he moved to Gilsland aged 15 to work on a local farm. He cut his teeth working at RAF Spadeadam, driving military vehicles including large tanks.

The family set up a pony trekking centre in Haltwhistle and became well known around the town for travelling the streets on his horses.

“He thrived on running around here there and everywhere,” daughter, Emma Armstrong said.

Building on their experience, the family formed their own coach company in 1991 based out of Gilsland Spa.

It was from there that Derek would provide a helping hand to transport residents to Hexham, Hadrian’s Wall, Carlisle and the Lake District.

Emma explained: “Everybody would always have comments to leave about how dad had made their holiday and how his loving knowledge of the area was second to none.”

Derek earned the nickname ‘Huggy’ from his many years of taking children to school, providing the key service to many generations of families throughout the district.

He soon became part of the local landscape, with no day complete without a smile and a signature wave from the father of two.

“He’s always been in and around the local area,” Emma said, “having 40-50 people on your coach was his own personal audience.

“He used to love talking about the local area and always had a wave for everybody.”

Derek was devoted to the family coach service and continued driving until his death.

When he wasn’t behind the wheel he enjoyed walking his dogs and driving his ‘pride and joy’ Dodge Ram pickup with wife Sandra.

He enjoyed spending time with his grandkids in the summer, cycling and exploring the local country lanes and travelling to local hidden gems.

Derek was the partner of Sandra, dad of Gary and Emma, Grandad to Sam, Arthur and Elizabeth and Great Grandad to Rosie.

A funeral service was held at Gilsland Church on Friday, September 11. at 12.30pm.