The funeral for a popular member of the community is taking place this morning.

A large procession including a horse-drawn carriage, a hearse and eight limousines has been making its way through Ashford town centre for the funeral of Tapiwa 'Blade' Nzou.

The devoted father-of-three died on January 25 after contracting cerebral malaria, which affects the brain, whilst at his sister's wedding in Nigeria in December.

Tapiwa, who was born in Zimbabwe but had lived in Ashford for more than 20 years, was known for encouraging young people to become rap singers, dancers and musicians

In 2009, he was awarded a Kent County Council black and minority achievement award for his contributions to Ashford.

His son Deon, 20, said: "If anybody ever had any troubles, he would always put them first.

"He would always go above and beyond for others and he touched the hearts of many people, not just those in Ashford."

"He was always there spreading love and care, building and encouraging the youth and people of Ashford through music."

Large crowds of mourners, all dressed in black, gathered outside the Centrepiece Church on Bank Street where the funeral is taking place.

The procession left Upper Denmark Road in South Ashford at around 8am, before travelling along Beaver Road, A2042 Avenue Jacques Faucheux and Elwick Road to get to the church.

The funeral, which began at 9am, is expected to end at around 12.30pm.

The procession will then head down Tufton Street and back through the town as it heads towards the cemetery.