Wensleydale’s David Hartley dies aged 58

David Hartley, the managing director of Wensleydale Dairy Products, died on 2nd December aged 58 following a year-long battle with cancer.

In a statement, the company said he will be “terribly missed by all his friends and colleagues at the Wensleydale Creamery”.

“Each and every day he injected passion, quality and enthusiasm into both his business and personal life.”

David played an instrumental role in the management buyout that saved the Creamery in 1992. He stepped back from the day-to-day management of the company last winter after he was diagnosed with cancer.

“Over the past 28 years, under his direction, the business became an integral part of the local community, with coveted recognition for its award-winning range of cheeses,” the statement continued.

“Alongside the management team, David cemented Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese as a household favourite, both in the UK and internationally.”

“David was a devoted family man, and our thoughts are with his wife, two daughters and family, who have asked for privacy at this difficult time.”

Jill McMullon, chair of Hawes and High Abbotside Parish Council, where the Creamery is based, told Richmondshire Today that the news was “greatly sad and a real shock in Hawes”.

“He was highly regarded, not least among his staff who I know are devastated by the news. Wensleydale cheese is world renowned thanks to his tireless hard work and the news is a bitter blow.”