Scrap metal merchant and lifelong horseman remembered for his warmth, humour and dedication to Bridlington’s heritage
One of Bridlington’s best-known characters, Donald Albert “Donny” Wilkinson, has sadly passed away at the age of 88.
A familiar face in the Old Town, Donny ran Wilkinson Scrap Metals on Green Dragon Lane for many decades and was known by countless residents and tradespeople across the area. His friendly manner, hard work and sense of humour made him a much-loved part of Bridlington’s community.
Donny, who celebrated his 88th birthday during the summer, marked the occasion in true Old Town style — with a traditional landau ride around Bridlington. A lifelong horseman, he delighted in taking the reins once again, retracing the routes he had driven countless times during his years offering landau rides for visitors to the seafront.
The Wilkinson family’s association with landaus stretches back to the late 1800s and Donny proudly kept that tradition alive well into his seventies, driving for weddings, funerals and seaside tours.
Donny passed away peacefully at home on 2 November 2025. He was the dearly loved husband of the late Gill who sadly passed away only several weeks ago and a loving dad, father-in-law, grandad, great-grandad and friend to many.
A funeral service will be held at The Priory Church, Bridlington, on Friday, 21 November, at 11am, followed by a private burial. Flowers are welcome, or donations may be made in Donny’s memory to The Priory Church, The British Horse Society, or The Horse Trust for Retired Service Horses, Ponies and Donkeys.
He will be fondly remembered as a true gentleman of Old Town, whose warmth, laughter and love of horses left a lasting mark on Bridlington life.
