A DEVOTED director of the Great Dorset Steam Fair for many years, Sidney Wallace died peacefully at Poole Hospital on October 1, aged 79.

He held the position for more than 20 years and had attended the fair since its earliest days. He came to be widely respected for his professional approach and strong work ethic.

Born in Station Terrace, Wimborne, on June 28, 1935, Mr Wallace was a true Wimburnian and remained in the town of his birth for the rest of his life.

He adored the county of his birth and could tell many a story about all parts of Dorset past and present.

In early life he did his compulsory National Service, after which he went into driving a livestock truck for first Jack Strange, then BJ Meaden.

Later in life the steam fair took over full time.

He began as section leader for the heavy horses, building the section up to make it one of the top shows in the country.

After taking on a larger role he increasingly became involved in more sections within the show, along with Martin Oliver and their fellow directors.

He lived and breathed the show, planning the following year straight away after the show had finished, and he continued to provide valuable support for the event right up until his final days.

The fair’s organisers said they were “greatly saddened” to hear of his death and that he would be “deeply missed and always remembered”.

Mr Wallace died following a short illness; a memorial service was held last month at St John’s Church, Wimborne.

A true gentleman, he leaves his son Mark and grandchildren Mason and Chloe.