Popular Pearcedale trainer Bill Walker passed away at the weekend after battling serious health issues over the past few years.

A talented horseman, Bill produced a string of top performers over many years including Lombo Sykrider, Stoned At Midnight, Charley’s Dream and Stoned I Am and is credited with putting the early polish on Hectorjayjay.

He was also an active member of the local harness racing community and, fittingly, a funeral service celebrating Bill’s life will be held this Thursday February 14 commencing at 1.30pm on the first floor of the Cranbourne Racing Centre.

Cranbourne Vice-President David Scott said "Bill was the consummate professional".

"He was a quietly spoken man and was never one to get carried away even when his team got on a roll," Mr Scott said.

“He always seemed to have a nice horse in his team and did so without ever having a barn full of expensive blue-blood types. I think that speaks volumes about his horsemanship.

“Bill was also a wonderful supporter of our club and could always be relied on to throw in a late nom if we were struggling for fields or help out with a horse or two for a dual-seater sulky race when the need arose.

“I’m sure that those who remember Bill fondly will join us at the track on Thursday to farewell one of harness racing’s gentlemen."

The Cranbourne Harness Racing Club and Harness Racing Victoria extend their condolences to Bill’s wife Nell, his daughters Simone and Trudy, and all family and friends.