TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular parish council clerk and ex-Scout commissioner.

Ron Townsend, who lived at Totton and was Copythorne Parish Council clerk between 1988 and 2004, died last month aged 88.

Mr Townsend was also Romsey District Scout commissioner from 1974-1978.

Former Copythorne parish councillor Ruth Farmers, who knew Ron for more than 40 years, said: “He did everything to perfection and he was a marvellous clerk. He was charming and kind.

“Ron was one of those people who’d always be in your life for one reason or another.

“He was very much a family man and took great pride in his children and grandchildren.”

Romsey District Scouts vice president David Sutton said Ron was a very “dedicated Scouter” and loved anything to do the administration.

Ron’s funeral service is due to take place tomorrow at Southampton Crematorium.