TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular town councillor whose funeral was held yesterday.

Ferryhill town councillor Joe Chaplin, who represented the Broom ward, died at home last week. He was 83.

He joined the council in 1991, served as chairman in 1995-6 and enjoyed three spells as council leader.

He was a governor at Broom Cottages Junior School and was secretary of Ferryhill Town Band for 17 years, for whom he worked tirelessly to raise money, in particular to buy instruments for youngsters he helped teach in the junior section.

Before becoming a councillor, he worked as an electrician at Dean and Chapter Colliery, until it closed in 1968, then at other pits before retiring in 1982.

Council leader Bernie Lamb said: "Joe was my mentor when I first became a councillor.

"He was someone I always looked up to and respected and considered to be a very dear friend. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him."

Executive officer Jamie Corrigan said: "Joe was a superb councillor. He always put Ferryhill first and was very keen to push forward projects that were positive for the town.

"Joe had an air about him that told you immediately you were dealing with a true gentleman."

Coun Chaplin's funeral was held at St Luke's Church, Ferryhill yesterday. He is survived by his wife, Olive, sons Brian and Nick and three grandchildren.