Veteran artist dies

Saddleworth artist John Thompson, famed for his distinctive paintings of figures in raincoats and flat caps, has died at the age of 87.

Mr Thompson, born in Salem, Oldham, was self-taught and set up as a full-time artist when he was 56.

He first leased a studio in Alexandra Craft Centre, Uppermill, and later worked from a studio in Kinders Lane, Greenfield, where he welcomed visitors and encouraged them into debate over his paintings.

His work has been seen far and wide, and has been hung in the House of Lords and even appeared on TV show “Footballers’ Wives.”

Mr Thompson leaves his wife, Shirley, children John and Scott, daughter-in-law Jacqui and two grandchildren, James and Ryan. The funeral will be held at Dukinfield Crematorium on Monday at 1pm.