THE funeral service of a "true gent", popular councillor and retired police inspector will take place on Thursday.

Councillor Ray Cole, a Conservative councillor and the last chairman of the Cumbria Police Authority, died on April 9 after a short illness.

Cllr Cole, 72, of Thirlmere Close, Millom, served the area as a councillor on Millom Town Council, Copeland Borough Council and previously Cumbria County Council. Cllr Cole had also been a warden for St George's Church in Millom.

A funeral service for Cllr Cole will take place at St George’s Church in the town on Thursday at 10.30am, followed by cremation at Barrow Crematorium.

Cllr Cole was the beloved husband of Nadine, much loved father of Allison, treasured grandfather of Ryan and Abigail, and dearly-loved father-in-law of Martin.

Cumbria Constabulary’s chief constable, Jerry Graham, paid tribute to Cllr Cole last week describing him as "a man of great integrity" and a "true gentleman".

Donations given at Cllr Cole's funeral will be going towards St George's Church funds.