The funeral takes place this week of a pensioner who was well-known for his litter picking efforts around town.

Henry James Sadler Parker, pictured, known to most as Jim, was a recognisable face in Folkestone and became renowned for strolling for miles with two shopping bags, collecting rubbish on the streets.

His friend Gill Cox, described him as a ‘cheeky chappy’: “He was very friendly and everyone knew him. He would walk for miles.

“He had trouble walking but despite this, he still tried to go out.”

The pair were next door neighbours at Jarrett House and friends for 20 years.

She explained that Mr Parker spent time in the navy as part of the Arctic Convoy, where the ship he was on was bombed and understood that he was a factory engineer after he left the navy.

He once won a Community Challenge Award from the Kentish Express, KentOnline's sister paper, for ‘his tireless work in keeping the town of Folkestone free of litter’.

Sainsbury’s also provided a hamper to him as a thanks for using their carrier bags to do his good work.

He died last month at the age of 97 at St Heliers Hotel care home in Clifton Gardens, where he had lived since since 2014.

Ms Cox added: “He received excellent care there and was very happy.”

He enjoyed ballroom dancing and holidays, and took several trips to Spain and Italy.

Mr Parker's friends are hoping those who knew him will be able to attend his funeral this week. The service is due to take place on Friday (May 17) at Hawkinge Crematorium at 3.30pm.

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone