THE funeral of a former long-serving councillor is to take place tomorrow.

Thomas Pounder, of Laburnum Court, Sacriston, died on Friday, December 30.

Mr Pounder served on Chester-le-Street District Council for 20 years, representing the Sacriston ward from 1979 until his retirement six years ago.

The Labour Party member was elected chairman of the council in 1988, an office he held for 12 months.

His funeral takes place at Durham Crematorium at 9am, to be followed by refreshments at Sacriston Cricket Club.