Respects have been paid to a Chesham ‘community stalwart’ whose funeral took place in Amersham today.

Former health and safety officer Albert Richardson passed away on January 31 at the age of 81, with residents saying his death was “a great loss to Chesham”.

Albert, a talented musician who played the last post at the service of Remembrance in Chesham for many years, was a well-known figure in the community.

As well as being a founding member of the 1st Chesham Boys Brigade, he was regularly involved with the Chess Valley Male Voice Choir, Hivings Free Church and a keen Chesham United supporter.

Albert’s funeral took place this morning, followed by a service at Chesham’s Broadway Baptist Church in the afternoon.

Cllr Derek Lacey from Chesham Town Council – a lifelong friend of Albert who attended the funeral – said: “He was a very, very well-known man because he did a lot for the community.

“He was always at the church doing something and it seems so wrong not to see him there.

“He was caring man and always obliging. I remember him coming to visit me in hospital.

“It was such a great service, it was very touching. He had a very close family and it was obvious to see he was a good father, brother and husband.

“We are all going to miss him – he is a great loss to Chesham.”

David Fishley, secretary of the Chess Valley Male Voice Choir, said: “The choir will greatly miss Albert who was fine and exemplary person but overall a gentleman who made friends with everyone.

“He was a second tenor with the choir for many years was also on the committee.

“He was always early to rehearsals to help set out the chairs and piano.

“All this despite being very actively involved in the church and many other organisations in the Chesham area.”

Cabinet member for transport at Bucks County Council Mark Shaw said: “Most people in Chesham know Albert, he was a stalwart of the community.

“He was a funny man but quite quiet. He just got on with thing without a fuss.

“For Albert not to be with us for this year’s remembrance will be a huge loss. He will be sorely missed by a lot of people.

“Unfortunately I wasn’t able to attend the funeral but I know it would have been very busy because there are a lot of people who loved him.”

Did you know Albert Richardson? If you want to leave a tribute email Will Burton on william.burton@london.newsquest.co.uk or call 01494755094.