The funeral of a man who helped to keep Gravesham's illustrious past in living memory will be held next week.

Roy Coussens was said to be as much a part of the borough's history as the many plaques he cast to commemorate its important figures.

Mr Coussens, who sadly died on New Year's Day, ran the Old Forge and Metal Works (Ellis Rees and Co) in Grove Road, Northfleet.

It was here that for more than 45 years he cast the numerous plaques dotted around the town, including ones to General Charles Gordon and Robert Pocock.

He was commissioned to carry out the work by the Gravesham Heritage Association. Its secretary, Tony Larkin, paid tribute.

"The man should not disappear from history. I think Roy Coussens should be acknowledged and recorded in our history. These plaques are a tribute to him."

Mr Coussens lived with his wife, Renee, in Medway and was believed to be in his 80s when he died.

His funeral will be held at Medway Crematorium at 12pm on Wednesday, February 3.

Floral tributes or donations to Cats Protection, formerly Cats Protection League, or Cancer Research can be made through Co-Operative Funeralcare in Chatham High Street.

It was Mr Larkin who first approached Mr Coussens to carry out the work on behalf of the heritage association.

Mr Coussens, who was born in Swanscombe, also forged links with the Robert Pocock Society and the Gordon Action Group, and carried out restoration and repair work nationwide.

"He was a businessman and made a living out of us but he supported us and was doing things no one else wanted to do anymore," added Mr Larkin.

"We just want to express our thanks to him."