Hundreds of people turned out to mourn the loss of a much-loved community advocate who “fought for integration, diversity and dignity” among older people.

Stan Davison was laid to rest this afternoon at Golders Green Crematorium in front of more than 200 family and friends, including politicians and community figures from across Barnet.

The well-known and popular 87-year-old, of The Greenway, Colindale, passed away on Saturday, June 1, following an illness.

A packed congregation at the Hoop Lane crematorium today heard how the staunch Labour supporter and dedicated trade union activist devoted his life to fighting causes for the vulnerable in society.

His grandson Terry Shane said the family had been overwhelmed by the number of tributes that have flooded in since the former Navy radio operator’s death.

‘Danny Boy’ by Frederic Weatherly played as mourners entered the chapel, a song Mr Shane revealed became a favourite of his grandfather’s and one he would sing at family parties around the piano.

Since moving to Edgware in 1936, the former London Transport employee became a champion of local causes, particularly on the NHS, trade union campaigns, and later, older people’s rights.

He was a founding member of Barnet Older People’s Assembly, chairman of the Barnet 55+ Forum and fought a long but ultimately unsuccessful campaign to try and save Edgware Hospital from closure.

Remembering his friend of seven years, Peter Cragg told the congregation: “He stayed with that campaign from the beginning to the very end.

"I knew him when he helped set up the Burnt Oak Pensioner's Association - he promoted integration, diversity and dignity among older people.

“He was a dedicated and intense man – always thinking of the next challenge.”

Turning to the coffin, he added: “Stan, people who knew you, whilst not always agreeing with you, admired you, respected you, and they will miss you.”

Mr Davison leaves behind his two step-daughters, Sonia and Gloria, as well as five grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

The family requested no flowers but donations from the funeral will go to Operation Restore Hope New Zealand – a charity providing surgical care for less fortunate children in the country.

Speaking after the service today, Mr Davison’s step-daughter Sonia Glassbrook said: “The turnout is incredible. It just shows how popular he was – I don’t know anyone who didn’t like him.

“It is lovely to see so many people here. Some have come from all over the country and it is overwhelming - it was a fitting send off.”