POLICE officers formed a guard of honour as a ‘truly wonderful’ Redditch councillor was laid to rest.

Gareth Prosser, aged 66, a councillor for Crabbs Cross and a former police officer died on Friday, January 13.

Mourners packed out Redditch Crematorium on Thursday, February 9 for his funeral service.

A West Mercia Police flag was draped over his coffin and his police hat and medals were placed on top as it entered the crematorium following a guard of honour formed by police officers.

Several civic leaders and former council and police officers attended the service.

Gareth leaves behind his wife Lynn, his daughter Victoria and two granddaughters who called Gareth ‘Bamps’.

Victoria Khawaja said: “We have lost a truly wonderful man who meant so much to so many.

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“A much-admired and well-respected colleague, boss and friend to those he met throughout his dedicated service in the police force, council and as mayor.

“A loving husband of nearly 40 years, whose wicked sense of humour brought laughter even in life’s dark days.

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“A supportive father-in-law, who was so keen to share his love of football with someone in a family full of girls!

“A proud dad, who never failed to offer love and guidance, not to mention a fitting pun for any occasion.

“A devoted Bamps to his precious granddaughters - “the best dolly player in the world” - a title he was so very proud of.

“How privileged we all are to have had this special man play such an important part in our lives.”

Gareth served on Redditch Borough Council for eight years which included two terms as mayor, making him the only councillor to ever serve two consecutive mayoral terms for the town.

In May last year, Gareth and his Lynn were invited to Buckingham Palace to join the Queen's Garden Party.