A RETIRED Durham businessman, who won many awards for his tireless work in the community, has died at the age of 85.

Known by all as Mr Seaham, Bill Brooks was last night praised by town mayor Councillor Sonia Forster, who described him as "a truly wonderful man.''

Mr Brooks from Denehouse Road, in Seaham, was born in Dawdon, and died at the Beachcomber Nursing Home, in the town's North Road.

One of the most familiar figures in the coastal community, the former fishmonger helped scores of groups and organisations to flourish.

He had served as president of the Chamber of Trade, Seaham and District Scout Association and Seaham Neighbourhood Football. His devotion to the community won him a string of awards, including tributes from the town council and Seaham Business Club. He also received recognition from the police for the part he played in the Neighbourhood Watch.

Deeply saddened at his death, his widow, Eileen Brooks, said that he had lost count of the many awards he had received. She said: "If something needed doing, he would step in and make sure it was done.''

In the Second World War, Mr Brooks served in the transport command of the RAF. After the war, he worked for Dewhirst butchers, before becoming manager of Fletcher's butchery business.

In 1963, he bought a fishmonger's shop, in Church Street, in the town, which is now run by his son, Allan.

Mr Brooks was also a founder member and president of the town's branch of the Royal British Legion. In tribute to him, members will form a guard of honour this morning at his funeral, which will be held at 9.10am at St John's Church.

In addition to his wife and son, Mr Brooks leaves a daughter, Christine Brown, two grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

"He was passionate about Seaham, and he was also a devoted family man, and he will be very sadly missed by us all,'' said his son ,Allan.