A MEOLS painter whose career as an artist spanned more than 70 years has died aged 92.

Born in Liverpool in 1927, Robert Blackburn, known as Bob, studied at the Liverpool School of Art during WWII before joining the army towards the end of the war.

During his life he spoke fondly of his teachers including Allan Tankard and Alfred Wiffen who would often take the young artists out to Bidston Hill and Hilbre Island to sketch.

Once he left the army, Bob embarked on a career as a commercial artist, securing his first job as a member of the visual merchandising team at TJ Hughes.

He then moved to Owen Owen in Clayton Square followed by promotion to Bangor, North Wales, which led him to design work for the National Eisteddfod Festival.

Bob then decided on a change of career, training to become a teacher and taught in Nottingham, Birkenhead and Hoylake before retiring as head of art at a school in Wallasey.

Wirral Globe: Industrial Landscape by Bob Blackburn

Throughout the years he continued with his own art, painting traditional and abstract forms, taking influence from trips with his family around Europe, paying particular interest in landscapes.

Over the years he showcased his work in exhibitions in this country and abroad, selling paintings to both American and European collectors.

One of his most well-known works is that of Stanlow Refinery entitled 'Industrial Landscape' - influenced by the Futurist art movement, Bob spoke of how he saw beauty in the refinery.

Sadly Bob died peacefully at home on November 11, Armistice Day, surrounded by his family.

His funeral will take place at St Luke's Church in Hoylake on Thursday, November 21 at 3.30pm, all welcome.

Any flowers or donations to Friends of Hoylake & Meols in Bloom c/o Quinns Funeral Directors, Hoylake by calling 632 2205.