The funeral of former St Albans Mayor Gordon Myland described as a "true Albanian" will take place this Friday.

Councillor Myland died in Watford General Hospital on Tuesday, March 4, due to health problems, aged 77.

A Conservative councillor for more than 20 years, Councillor Myland was a representative for the Clarence ward in the late 80s before moving to the St Stephen ward.  He also served as the city Mayor between 2004 and 2005.

Colleague and long-time friend Councillor Salih Gaygusuz paid tribute to a "larger than life character, who was a true Albanian born and bred in St Albans and passionate about the city."

He said: "I have known Gordon for 25 years.

"I shall miss Gordon, who was never interested playing politics and always went for what he believed was best for the city he loved and devoted his life to, he is a huge loss for St Albans."

Councillor Gaygusuz said one of his fondest memories with Councillor Myland was when "Gordon had the shock of his life when a TV crew turned up to film him from Albania thinking Gordon was from Albania.

He explained: "Gordon had to admit to the TV crew that he was a true Albanian but not the Albania in Balkans."

Councillor Myland sat on various different committees during his time in council including, Chairman of licensing and regulatory services, Chairman of planning, Member of Plans south.

He also enjoyed raising various fundraising activities to raise huge funds for charities including Keech Hospice Care.

As well as this he was also a member of Morris dancers and St Albans Mummers.

Councillor Myland was born in December 1936 in St Albans, where his father was the Landlord of the Goat inn in St Albans and he was a former pupil at St Columba’s College in King Harry Lane.

He leaves behind his wife Eve and grown up twin daughters.

His funeral will take place at the Lady Chapel in St Albans Cathedral on March 21 at 2.30pm.