A popular vice-chairman of Rottingdean Parish Council has died just weeks after being elected to the post.

David Hawkins, a retired insurance executive, was part of the working party which formed the council and had been a member since 1996.

He, was also an active member of Rottingdean and Saltdean Lions and President of the Rottingdean branch of the Royal British Legion.

Mr Hawkins, from Ealing, West London was a lifelong supporter of Brentford football club and often made trips to see their games. He served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War.

He died on Friday at the Royal Sussex County Hospital, Brighton. He leaves a wife, Eileen, daughter Clare, son Robert, and two grandchildren.

Chairman of the parish council Peter Hampton said: "He was a very loyal colleague who will be greatly missed.

"He was a stable influence and because of his work and support, was elected vice-chairman of the council after the May elections. He was a great chap to have around the village."

The funeral will be at St Margaret's Church, Rottingdean, on Thursday, June 12.