Crowds of people gathered at Medway Crematorium to say their finals farewells to a long-standing councillor

Colleagues, family and friends packed out the crematorium to pay their respects to the "devoted" and "lovely" grandfather David Carr, who died on Friday, January 18 at the age of 80 after suffering from a stroke.

The former mayor of Medway and councillor for Rainham North served on Medway Council since 2007.

He held duties on more committees and outside bodies than any other member of the council.

His memorial service began with the song Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring and was played by the organist.

Friend of David's for more than 12 years and fellow councillor Barry Kemp read out a tribute at the service which said: "David was my friend and colleague since he and I were both elected to the Medway Council in 2007.

"Since then we became firm friends and I was deeply saddened and terribly shocked at the suddenness of his demise.

"As a colleague, he was a diligent and dedicated member of the council. He took seriously his appointments to the Committees and Outside Bodies and afforded them the gravitas that they deserved.

"Although he served on more committees than anyone else on the council, he was always badgering me to appoint him to more. That was the man he was – one with a tremendous work ethic.

"As a Ward Councillor, his commitment to his residents was second to none. He was honest and truthful and responded to requests accordingly. It may not have been what they wanted to hear but they were never left in any doubt. He would always confront anti-social behaviour wherever and whenever it occurred. Some say he went where angels feared to tread but I say that he showed a level of commitment to his residents that has rarely been replicated.

"As a friend, he was superb company, and that I will miss. The fond memories of mealtimes spent together, of trips to the theatre, of the appalling hotel we stayed at in Bournemouth, not to mention the journey home will not be erased.

"As a person, David was inimitable, a one-off. He was a vivacious character with a wicked sense of humour. Yet, he also had the unique ability to put people at their ease and make them feel welcome, whether a nervous member of the public presenting a petition at O&S or spotting someone standing alone at a gathering. He treated princes and paupers alike. Some said he was Medway Council’s answer to Leslie Phillips!"

Cllr Kemp went on to describe Mr Carr's devotion to his wife, Kirstine Carr, and his family.

He added: "Above all, he was still very much a family man. He adored Kirstine and he told me not so long ago that he was as much in love with her now as he was more than 60 years ago.

"The day he died, I was listening on my car radio and they played Olivia Newton John singing “Hopelessly devoted to you”. The title, if not the lyrics, summed up perfectly David’s feeling for Kirstine.

" He was also immensely proud of his children and doted on his grandchildren. Of course he was concerned about them and anxious about them – that’s what Grandad’s do – we are hard-wired to worry. But whenever they come to cross roads in their lives and are unsure which route to follow. They should ask themselves, “What would Grandad say”, and take the advice he offers

"Finally, I say to David, “Goodnight, my friend – sleep well and God Bless"

The service also saw Mr Carr's son, Ashley Carr read a eulogy and and his grand daughter, Paige Walker, read a poem in his memory.