HUNDREDS of mourners packed Bury Parish Church on Tuesday afternoon as the borough bade a fond farewell to one of its best-loved adopted sons, David Davies.

Members of Mr Davies's family and many close friends were joined by around 300 people at the service, from the mayor, councillors of all parties and civic dignitaries, to representatives of the dozens of local organisations that he had helped in his decades of service to the town.

In a moving and heartfelt address, the Rector of Bury, the Rev John Findon, said a life such as Mr Davies's should be celebrated, and paid tribute to the work he had done for the local community since he came to the town as a young man. He said the quality which defined "Dai" Davies was his integrity, which had helped him be the man he was in all aspects of his life.

The service, titled In thanksgiving and celebration, was conducted by the Rector with help from local United Reformed Church minister the Rev Ruth Wollaston and Catholic priest Father Anthony Lawton. The lesson, from the Gospel according to St Matthew, was read by the Mayor, Coun John Costello.

Mr Davies, a councillor for more than 40 years was the first honorary Freeman of the Metropolitan Borough of Bury. He was awarded the British Empire Medal for his work to secure pensions for war widows and their relatives. He died last week aged 91.

Tuesday's civic service was followed by a private committal in Rochdale.

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