A RESPECTED Oxford clergyman who celebrated 50 years in his local ministry last year, has died aged 82.

The Rev Tom Stiff marked his half-century at Collingwood Road United Reformed Church, at Risinghurst, Headington, with an anniversary service in September 2001.

Born in Birmingham, Mr Stiff was ordained to the ministry at Collingwood Road in 1951, coming from Bristol Congregational Theological College.

When he arrived, a multi-purpose hall served as the church and there was no minister's house.

Mr Stiff lived in a caravan while one was constructed.

His dedication was shown through the fundraising and building programme he oversaw for the next 18 years, which led to the opening of the present church building and a larger hall.

His campaign to persuade people to each 'buy a brick' made him well-known throughout the community.

Donors' bricks, with their names signed in chalk on the sides, were uncovered during work at Collingwood Road two years ago. Despite retiring in 1986, he still played an important role within the church, preaching there once a month and supporting social events.

He was also important in forging strong relationships between the church and Scout and Guide groups, as well as large men and women's fellowships.

Last year he said: "I was often asked by other churches to move to them, and I always considered it carefully. But I have such a deep and good relationship with people in the church and in the neighbourhood, that it always seemed best to stay here."

Mr Stiff was married twice. His first wife, Peggy, died in 1988, and his second wife, Monica, died in 1995.

He is survived by his son and daughter, Peter and Judith, and three grandchildren.

A funeral service will be held at the church on Friday, at 2.15pm, on October 11.