The funeral of Merton’s first Gurkha councillor will be held later this week.

Labour Councillor Gam Gurung, for Colliers Wood, died last Monday following a six month battle with cancer.

The 53-year-old was elected in 2010 and was the first Gurkha member on the council in its history and has long championed the rights of Gurkahs in the UK having served for 17 years.

The former Carshalton College teacher, who taught bricklaying, founded the South London Nepalese Gurkha Association in 2008 to help the Gurkha community.

A ceremony will be held prior to his funeral on July 4 at Morden’s Assembly Hall in Tudor Drive at 10am, followed by a procession to the North East Crematorium in Lower Morden Lane from 12.50pm.

A reception will then be held at the Assembly Hall at 1.45pm where there will be a condolence book.

Gam’s widow has requested no donations, but card of condolence can be sent to Councillor Garung’s family at 3 The Sanctuary, Morden SM4 5NX.

Anyone wishing to present a wreath or flowers on behalf of an association, please contact Rag Purja, Chairman South London Nepalese Gurkha Association on 07886 8607027.