THE funeral of Chris Meader, the Kent Messenger Group's health and safety officer who died last week, will be held at Medway Crematorium on Monday, December 22, at 3pm.

Afterwards relatives and other mourners will meet at the Robin Hood public house at Blue Bell Hill, near Chatham.

Mr Meader, who died from cancer aged 53, worked for the newspaper group in various positions for the past 26 years.

In a statement the company said: "A few weeks ago Chris was diagnosed with severe cancer and two weeks ago it was found to be inoperable.

"During his time at KMG Chris helped many of us sort out issues with security, building services and health and safety and with his friendly and happy manner gained the affection of us all."

Mr Meader leaves a widow, Michele, and sons Rob and Tony, all of whom are employed by the Kent Messenger Group.

The statement added: "As colleagues and friends, we will miss him greatly and our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his family at this difficult time."