A FUNERAL for former Oxford Labour councillor Van Coulter is set to take place on March 30, it has been confirmed.

The 57-year-old, described as kind, hard-working and 'dedicated to helping people' by friends and colleagues, died unexpectedly at home on Monday.

His funeral will be held at 10am in Oxford Crematorium, Bayswater Road, just outside his former Barton and Sandhills council ward.

Friends said they wanted to share the details widely and the service is expected to be well-attended by members of the community and political colleagues.

Mr Coulter had represented Barton and Sandhills on Oxford City Council since 2010.

His death was decribed as a 'real blow to the city' by city council leader Bob Price, who added: "Van was a passionate advocate for social justice and equalities.

"He was a hard-working and committed ward councillor for Barton and Sandhills and was closely involved in the planning of the new Barton estate.

"His kindness and courtesy were legendary."