THE family of "inspirational" Wanstead councillor Allan Burgess have thanked the people of Redbridge for their support following his death last month.

Last week hundreds of people from across the community came to the funeral of the widely respected councillor and former police chief, who died after a battle with kidney cancer at the age of 76.

Step-grandson James Addinall said: "The family would like to say thank you for the overwhelming support shown by the attendance of so many people who knew Allan.

"There was so many kind words and supporting messages from everyone who attended.

"The family is touched."

Cllr Burgess is survived by his wife Fay Burgess, daughters Fiona Moulson and Trudi Burgess, step-daughter Susan Surgenor, granchildren Harriet and Christain Moulson, and step-grandchildren James Addinall and Nicole Surgenor.

Cllr Burgess was first elected to the council in 1990 and served as the Leader of the Council from March 2003 to May 2004.