Mr Asquith learned his trade with an apprenticeship in his father's joinery business and would go on to make Ossett-based Asquith Homes a household name in West Yorkshire.

The firm's more recent projects included building homes on the site of Spa Street School, which Mr Asquith attended as a boy and which later became the firm's HQ.

Aside from his substantial business achievements, Mr Asquith was very active in the wider community. A Conservative councillor on Ossett Borough Council, he was made mayor of the town in 1970 at the age of just 32.

He was a leading figure in Ossett Rotary Club and was honoured with the role of club president on two occasions. In addition, he also spent time as a member of the Round Table.

Victoria Squash Club, which he built and ran until it closed in 1987, was another contribution to life in his home town.

Mr Asquith came to wider attention as a director and later chairman of Huddersfield Town.

A former player with Ossett Common Rovers and Ossett Albion, he was a lifelong Town fan and joined the board in 1993.

He was elected vice-chairman of the club in 1995 before becoming chairman in 1997, holding the role for two years.

Mr Asquith was described by those who knew him as an honest, hard working family man who was widely respected.

He leaves a wife Sheila, two sons Jonathan and Matthew and four grandchildren Hollie Mae, Amie Elizabeth, Lilac Sky and Felix Blue.

His funeral takes place on Monday at North Ossett Church at 11am.