Tributes to talented artist David Betson who captured the history of Hartlepool in Millennium mural

David Betson, who painted the unique 78ft work of art depicting the town's rich history to mark the year 2000, died in hospital on August 6 aged 88.

He was described by friends as a ‘genuine person' who would help anybody.

David created the Millennium Mural showing Hartlepool’s history which hung above Marks & Spencer in Middleton Grange shopping centre for 14 years.

He led calls for it to be reinstalled when it was removed and the Mail campaigned for it to be displayed elsewhere.

Born in Cambridge in 1931, David came north when he was called up to the Army and was a PT Instructor based at Catterick.

It was there that he met his wife Pat from Hartlepool.

David, who lived at the Fens, once worked in a bakers but had to leave because the flour caused him eczema.

In Hartlepool he was manager of Wolviston Supplies hardware shop until he was made redundant when it closed and he retired early to continue his painting.

He was a member of Hartlepool Art Club for many years and sold many of his pictures through the club.

He painted the Millennium Mural after being chosen by British Steel which presented it to the people of the town.

Longtime friend Anne Chinery said: "It was unique in its conception because it was not a single picture but all the history of the town joined together.

“He was very proud of it and was most upset when it was taken down.

"David was a genuine person who would help anybody. He had a lot of friends in the town.”

As well as the millennium mural, he also painted a mural of the history of the Cameron’s Brewery in its Visitor Centre Anchor Tap Room and Bottle Shop Pub, and one in Hartlepool Bowling Club.

David and Pat had no children but his goddaughters Lynda and her sister Karen, and their children, were like family to him.

He leaves sisters Rose in Cambridge and Joan in Australia, and two nephews and four nieces.

His other interests included bowls, Tai Chi and dancing.

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