BRITISH Empire Medal recipient, former JP, marathon runner and football referee Derek Sibbet has died at the age of 79.

Mr Sibbet moved to Abingdon from his native Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 1963, working as an electrician at the Medical Research Council at Harwell. He moved later to Culham, where he became union convenor until retiring in 1993.

A lifelong supporter of the Labour Party, Mr Sibbet was Abingdon branch treasurer. He also served as treasurer for the Northcourt Community Centre, Wildmoor Housing Association and the North Berks Referees Association.

For many years Mr Sibbet helped run the Monday Youth Club at the former Bennett House School for children with learning difficulties, as well as the youth club at Christ Church where he was also a sidesman.

He was deeply involved in football and right up until his 70th birthday refereed matches.

He belonged to Abingdon Bowls Club, playing both outdoor and indoor bowls and was playing only a week before his death.

A keen marathon runner, he took up the sport in his 50s and competed into his mid-60s.

Mr Sibbet served as a magistrate on the Oxford bench, and in 1992 was awarded the British Empire Medal in recognition of his service to the community.

Diagnosed with cancer two years ago, he remained active until a few days before his death at home in Crosslands Drive, Abingdon.

He is survived by his wife, Audrey, children Alan, Elisa and David, and six grandchildren. His funeral service takes place at Christ Church, Abingdon, at 1.30pm on April 10.