THE funeral will take place today of former Christchurch mayor John Moss who died on November 18 at the age of 79.

John was elected a borough councillor in 1987, representing the St Catherine’s ward, and becoming the town’s First Citizen just two years later.

While serving as a local councillor in Southend in the 1960s John met his wife Day at a Conservative party event. Day had two daughters; Jenny and Carrie.

John worked at Plesseys and moved to Christchurch in the early 1970s. Apart from politics, his other passion was sport and he was president of Christchurch Sports Council; a role he held until his death on November 18.

Cllr David Flagg, who served on the Sports Council with him, said: “John was always a great supporter of the Sports Council and his contribution will be greatly missed.”

John was also a keen member of the Christchurch Twinning Association, making several trips to France where he and Day forged many friendships.

He stood down as a councillor in 1995 but soon after moving to Hordle became involved in the local community, spending several years on the parish council. He was also a member of the local history group.

Christchurch council deputy mayor Cllr John Lofts, who served on the council with John, said: “I was very grateful for his continuous advice and support.

“After leaving the council John was still involved with the borough through his membership of the Past Mayors’ Association which provides support and help to each Mayor and their nominated charities. Our sympathies go out to John’s widow and family.”

Cllr Lofts will represent the borough at John’s funeral service at Bournemouth Crematorium’s East Chapel today at 2pm.