Tributes have been paid to highly-respected Medway solicitor Michael Dakers who has died at the age of 74.

He was a senior partner of Dakers Green and Brett, which became dgb Solicitors and at one point had five branch offices.

After a two-year consultancy, he left to set up a new firm on his own, Dakers Marriott, with colleague Mark Marriott based in Strood. He retired in 2008.

For many years he was an active member and secretary of Medway Rugby Football Club and he was a member of the Castle Club, a members’ only social club in Rochester from 1967.

Professionally, Mr Dakers developed an expertise in planning law and was a Legal Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute in 1975.

He was chairman of Strood Town Centre Forum and unveiled a five-point plan for the town which included removing traffic from the centre, transforming Tolgate Lane into an arcade and introducing more parking.

Grandfather Mr Dakers was also heavily involved in the Strood Community Project, which was set up to support needy and vulnerable people in the area.

He was public relations officer for the Kent Law Society.

He followed his father into the legal profession starting by answering phones and rising to head his own company.

He had fond memories of acting on behalf of people affected by the Channel Tunnel rail link and appeared in front of select committees at the Houses of Parliament.

He was instrumental in thrashing out a route for the line which was mapped out in the garden of his Rochester home and eventually adopted by the government.

He was an able representative for any just cause, regardless of the status or reputation of his client’s opponent.

He was married to Gilly and as a couple they did a lot of travelling to countries including South Africa, India, Thailand and Europe. He also started his own travel company.

Ian Pentecost, chairman of dgb Solicitors, said: “He was well-known throughout Kent as fiercely independent, an eloquent advocate and a formidable representative for any just cause, regardless of the status or reputation of his client’s opponent.”

He followed in his father Geoffrey’s footsteps. He had a love of rugby and gardening. His first wife was Jennifer and they had two children, Lorna and Oliver.

He also had three grandchildren - Freddy, Sapphire and Rosie.

Lorna said: “My father had a very rich life. He would fight for what he believed. We are all very proud of the legacy he leaves with us.”

His funeral is at Medway Crematorium, Robin Hood Lane, Blue Bell Hill at 10.30am on Wednesday. All are welcome.

Family flowers only, but donations if desired should go to the Wisdom Hospice or the children’s charity, Holding On Letting Go via W Naylar and Son on 01634 843143.