Ernest Henry Chandler died on February 24 aged 89 after a short illness.

Mr Chandler, known to many as 'Ern', was secretary of the Midlands Meccano Guild for many years and was later made president in recognition of his service.

He was also known to many people involved with Warwick Unitarians, at which his son Nigel had been an active member.

He attended services at the Unitarians chapel in High Street and was a close friend of former lay leader Malcolm Sadler, who conducted Mr Chandler's funeral. Mr Sadler paid tribute to a quiet and private man with a loyal nature and a surprising number of friends across the globe.

Mr Sadler said: "Ernest was known all over the world. We have had letters and emails from various continents. He kept up a big correspondence with Meccano enthusiasts. It was incredible. He knew hundreds and hundreds of people."

Mr Chandler was born in Stratford in 1919 and left school aged 14 where he began work as a bread delivery man, then using a horse and cart.

He later switched to lorries, a method he felt slowed him down as unlike horses, motor vehicles could not remember the routes.

He also drove in the army in the Second World War, and served in France, North Africa and Italy. After the war he continued working as a van driver until he retired in 1981. Mr Chandler's interests also included St John Ambulance and dog walking.

In later years he suffered the loss of his wife Vera and his son Nigel. He leaves a sister.

Mr Sadler added: "Ernest was a lovely old chap. He was a good and kind friend who was always ready to help with any job that needed doing. I know that I shall miss him as will his army of friends all over the world."