FORMER Taunton MP David Nicholson has paid tribute to respected local politician John Meikle who died last week at the age of 97.

Mr Nicholson, who served in Parliament for a decade, recalled how Mr Meikle helped him when he first stood successfully for election in 1987.

"He was a very good adviser and companion in my days as an MP and before I was elected," said Mr Nicholson. "He took me around town door knocking."

He said Mr Meikle, who was town Mayor and leader of the former Taunton Deane Borough Council during a 58-year stint in local politics, was anxious to see whether local people liked the way Taunton was developing.

"He was very proud of the town and of what he had achieved for it," added Mr Nicholson.

"He was a typical old-fashioned Conservative.

"He had a strong sense of public duty, a strong sense of tradition and a strong sense of good causes."

The former MP said Mr Meikle championed the cause of young people.

"As leader of the council with a majority until 1891, he was able to achieve a lot," said Mr Nicholson.

Mr Meikle's funeral is being held at Staplegrove Church at midday on Friday.