A FORMER Harefield councillor and mayor's consort who was passionate about local politics has died.

Alan Blundell, a steadfast member of the Labour group, was 78 when he succumbed to Alzheimer's disease and ongoing health problems on Friday, February 5.

Mr Blundell, who grew up in Pinner Green, was married to his wife, Joan, Mayor of Hillingdon from 1996-1997, for 54 years.

The couple lived together in Hallowell Road, Northwood and have three children and five grandchildren.

Mrs Blundell, 76, said of her husband: "When we first met, I actually didn't like him very much – but he won me over with his personality.

"He was a staunch trade unionist and we were both very passionate about the Labour group and 'politicking'.

"One of his proudest moments was when he won the Harefield by election in the 70s – his opposition was a former Labour group member who turned turtle and he never expected to take the seat.

"He also worked as a civil servant for many years before retiring at 57, and turned his attentions to being secretary of Michael Sobell House for 13 years, as well as becoming one of the youngest and longest-serving magistrates.

"He was also a fabulous cook and well known for his love of good food and wine.

"He was my soul mate and the love of my life and although the past 15 years since he became ill have been difficult, I am so proud of him and everything he achieved."

Councillor John Major, a friend of more than 20 years, said: "They were a gregarious couple and completely devoted to one another, even after Alan's health deteriorated.

"When I was first elected in 1996 they were both wonderfully supportive, always there with sound advice and I was always amazed by how sociable and outgoing they were, liked by all who came into touch with them.

Lord Richard Rosser, who has known Mr Blundell since he was 18, said: "Alan was the sort of person everyone would like as a friend – very warm and extremely easy to get along with.

"He was very fair and level headed and had his feet very much on the ground – he never pre-judged people based on first impressions."

Friend of the family Christine Shaw, of Hallowell Road added: "Alan was so affectionate and a real 'Father Christmas' character – he always made you feel that you were important and that nothing was too trivial to bother him with."

Alan's funeral will be taking place at East Chapel, Breakspear Crematorium on February 25 at 1pm. Anyone wishing to pay their respects has been asked to send a donation to Michael Sobell House or Northwood Alzheimer's Society. 

John McDonnell, MP for Hayes and Harlington, who knew Mr Blundell for more than 30 years, said: "Alan was a stalwart Labour supporter who served his local community with dedication and made a major contribution to the provision of local services in Hillingdon.

"He gained respect for his hard work and his willingness to serve the community. He was an extremely able councillor and he will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him."

Did you know Alan? Email sibamatti@trinitysouth.co.uk with your tributes and condolences.