Alan Holden was an avid campaigner dedicated to preserving the quality of life in Broad Oak.

But his work in helping abused children through Childline, which he helped set up, was perhaps his greatest achievement.

When he stepped down, he was presented with an award for his services to the charity from Sophie, the Countess of Wessex.

Alan, a former head of social services in Harrow, died at the Pilgrim's Hospice last Monday after a battle with prostate cancer, aged 75.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Gabrielle, daughter Caroline and son Andrew.

Last week, the family received a message of sympathy from Esther Rantzen, who worked closely with Alan on Childline, which is now part of the NSPCC.

Caroline said: "Dad was amazing. He was kind, intelligent, funny and cared about people, especially the welfare of children."

Alan semi-retired to Broad Oak about 15 years ago and became a thorn in the local authority's side as chairman of the village preservation society.

His latest campaign had been against National Grid and its controversial pylons scheme, which has resulted in trees and hedges being cut down.

He was also a Labour supporter and twice stood unsuccessfully in local city council elections.

He continued to work up until he became seriously ill and was in the process of setting up a new university in Qatar.

His funeral will take place at 4.40pm on Wednesday, June 6, at Barham Crematorium.