The funeral of a dedicated former councillor will be held tomorrow.

John Cole was recognised for his commitment to public service after serving as a Pollards Hill ward councillor between 1986 and 1990 then later between 1994 and 2006.

Mr Cole was responsible for the building of Pollards Hill estate during his time and was recognised in 2006 as an Honorary Alderman of the Borough for his commitment to the role.

As well as taking on the position of deputy mayor of Merton, the council committee member also served as chair of governors at Sherwood School in Mitcham.

Mayor of Merton, Councillor Agatha Akyigyina, said: "John will be remembered for his commitment to serving the people of Pollards Hill and Merton as a ward councillor, deputy Mayor and Honorary Alderman of the Borough.

"On behalf of everyone at Merton Council, I’d like to pass on my condolences to his family and friends at this sad time."

Following a long illness, Mr Cole died on Friday, December 5. 

His family have requested that instead of floral tributes, any charitable donations should be made to the Peace and Hope Trust serving in Nicaragua.

The funeral will be held on Tuesday, December 23, at Mortlake Crematorium in Richmond at 11.20am.

Following the service, a wake will be held at the New Horizon Centre in Pollards Hill at 1pm.