Dr Padraig (Paddy) O'Brien, husband of Mrs Sheila O'Brien, died at home on May 13.

He was 79. Dr O'Brien, of Appleton, was born in Dublin, and since 1948 was employed as a medical practitioner.

He was educated at Belvedere College and the National University of Ireland, where he qualified in 1946 and was awarded the degree of Doctor of Medicine in 1963.

Dr O'Brien was a widely-known and well-respected figure in Warrington, and was a foundation member, and subsequently Fellow, of the Royal College of General Practitioners, and he also served on its Council.

Through this and other medical bodies he promoted health care both locally and nationally, working in particular for the provision of maternity services.

His achievements were recognised with the award of an OBE in 1973.

Dr O'Brien was active in the parish of St Monica's, Appleton, and in ecumenical work in wider Christian community through Bridgewater Churches Together.

For 10 years he was the chairman of the governors of St John's School and also of the local branch of the MS Society.

After his retirement Dr O'Brien contributed to research on the history of Warrington through membership of local societies and as author of a book on the Warrington Academy and another on Eyre's Press.

In a third book he took a wider view of Joseph Priestley, Thomas Paine and the development of radical thought in the 18th century.

His expertise in this field led to invitations to deliver lectures in the Priestley Lecture series in Birmingham and Leeds and to his appointment as a governor of Manchester College, Oxford.

Mr O'Brien leaves his wife, whom he married in 1949, two daughters and three sons.

A service was held on May 24 at St Monica's RC Church, followed by cremation at Walton Lea.

The Rev Father George Browne officiated.

All donations were sent to CAFOD, the MS Society and Shelter.

Arrangements were made by A, Maddock & Sons, of Stockton heath and Lovely Lane.