Andy Baker

Born in Hull, Mr Baker was passionate about the media and drama. He started out with a Leeds advertising agency before embarking on a freelance career.

During his 20 years in video production, he oversaw making promotional, motivational and training films for firms including Asda, The Halifax and RBS.

As a director, friends and colleagues described his technique as legendary.

“He always had the finished programme running through his mind while filming, identifying which takes would make the final cut and what music and sound effects would go where,” said one friend.

Comedian Peter Kaye, who collaborated with him on one shoot, referred to him as David Lean.

When illness prevented 
Mr Baker, who lived in Guiseley, Leeds, from working in 2008, 
he remained an adviser to 
friends and colleague in the business.

Three times he was declared in remission from cancer but it crept back and doctors attempted a bone-marrow transplant 
and a new drug from America.

Always keen to embrace new technology, Facebook became his main mode of communication during his illness, with regular updates – amusing, upsetting, disturbing or uplifting – depending on the phase of his illness.

He leaves Joanne, his wife of almost 12 years, and children Ronnie, 10, and Matilda, seven.