He was a man whose passionate belief in justice and freedom saw him jailed with Desmond Tutu during apartheid in South Africa.

From his battle against injustice in his hometown, to his dedication to those he served in Hampshire, Reverend Arnold Hirst will be remembered as an outspoken and generous pastor.

For 17 years he worked tirelessly for his parishioners in Wickham and today they will say a fond farewell to a man who got so much joy from his ministry.

Born in Pretoria, South Africa, Arnold Hirst was hugely influenced by the struggles of apartheid and became hugely involved in the battle against it.

At the age of 24 he was ordained as a priest but he continued to protest against apartheid becoming a vocal opponent of the South African government and often faced fierce opposition from some of his congregation.

Following a protest, he was arrested and jailed overnight with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, at the notorious Johannesburg Fort prison. They were both released and often joked about their time behind bars.

Archbishop Tutu has sent his condolences to the family and said: "What I remember so much about Arnold apart from being an outstanding priest, was his tremendous sense of fun even when we were in jail that night together.

"I praise him for his wonderful ministry, his humanity and send special love to all the family."

Revd Hirst came to England in 1988 after a request from the Bishop of Portsmouth. He accepted and relished in the opportunity this appointment gave him.

He served as parish priest for 17 years at St Nicholas Church, until his retirement in 2005, but his dedication continued, even conducting a funeral just days before his own death.

Life-long friend Ted Goodyer said: "He was a wonderful caring and trusted parish priest, who was endlessly available to people in need, regardless of the toll this took on his own health.

"Sometimes he was quite controversial, he had very strong views about justice and the welfare of people, but with somebody with history that is not unusual.

"He loved people to express their views and to express them quite forcibly. He was a very passionate person who lived life at 100mph and expected other people to keep up with him."

Revd Hirst died aged 70 after being diagnosed with liver cancer in February. He leaves his widow of 46 years, Jill, son, Stephen, two daughters, Katherine and Judith-Anne and seven grandchildren.

The service will be held at St Nicholas Church, today.