British Empire Medal holder, former JP, marathon runner and Abingdon football referee Derek Sibbet has died aged 79.

Mr Sibbet moved to Abingdon from his native Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 1963, working as an electrician for the Medical Research Council at the Atomic Energy Research Establishment at Harwell.

He moved later to the Culham site where he became union convenor until his retirement in 1993. A life-long supporter of the Labour Party, Mr Sibbet was treasurer of the Abingdon branch of the party.

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 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.

Mr Sibbet served as a magistrate on the Oxford bench.

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.

His funeral service takes place at Christ Church, Abingdon, at 1.30pm on Tuesday.