MEMORIES of a life devoted to the people of Bolton dominated the funeral of the borough's first black mayor, Campbell Benjamin.

Bolton Parish Church was filled on Tuesday with more than 200 people - including friends, family and civic dignitaries - to say goodbye to the 90-year-old former councillor.

The honorary alderman and former Labour councillor, who died in hospital earlier this month, leaves a wife Brenda, six children, and grandchildren.

His coffin, bedecked with a large arrangement of red roses, was carried into the church for a funeral service conducted by the Vicar of Bolton, Canon Michael Williams.

Labour's former council leader Bob Howarth recalled that it was fitting for the service to be held at the parish church as it was there, 11 years ago, that they had marked Mr Benjamin's year of office as mayor.

He had come to Britain in 1942 from Antigua in the West Indies to help with the war effort.

After the Second World War, he stayed and came to Bolton, following his trade as a tailor and becoming an active trade unionist.

After his election to Bolton Council in 1980 serving the Breightmet ward, he became a popular figure at the Town Hall.

"He was a friend by then and he had a natural charm. He really won hearts and minds," Mr Howarth told the congregation.

He recalled how Mr Benjamin, who was also awarded an OBE in 1996, used his year as mayor to promote racial harmony in Bolton.

"He was a lovely fellow and we will miss him a great deal," said Mr Howarth.

Family memories were recalled by his son David in a tribute read out by Canon Williams. He remembered the passion his father had for Bolton and its people. "He wanted to make a difference in the world and I'm sure you'll agree he did," said Mr Campbell.

"He once said to me everyone deserves to be treated equally and everyone deserves a chance - with the exception of Margaret Thatcher!"

A keen cricket fan, Mr Benjamin would follow the West Indies on television and was well-known in the family for baking and icing cakes.

Mr Benjamin had happy memories of his time as mayor and would tell the story of a visit to his parlour at the Town Hall by a group of awe-struck children.

He was amused when he learned later that they had returned to school telling everyone they had met Trevor McDonald, the ITV newscaster.

After yesterday's service, a commital service was held at Overdale. Family flowers only were requested, with donations made instead to Bolton Victim Support.