A FORMER chairman of Malvern Hills District Council who won the Military Cross for bravery under fire during the Second World War has died, aged 80.

Civil engineer William Johns was a district councillor for 15 years and served his civic year from 1990-1991.

He was elected to the Woodbury ward in 1980, and held the position until 1995.

During his time at MHDC he was a member of the administration and finance committee, where he served as chairman from 1986 to 1989.

Mr Johns was also vice-chairman of the northern area planning sub-committee from 1982 to 1989.

Kevin Douglas, a corporate director at the council, said even after Mr John's left, he remained interested in local government.

"He was always very supportive of officers and was well-respected," he said.

"We're still very shocked. Our thoughts are with his family."

Mr Johns was studying at King's College, London, in 1940, when his course was interrupted by the war.

He joined the Royal Engineers and served in India, Burma, and Germany, gaining the rank of lieutenant. He was awarded the Military Cross by King George VI for bravery after clearing mines in Burma, while under fire from Japanese troops.

After his discharge from the Army he completed his studies and gained a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering.

For the following 10 years, Mr Johns worked in Paris, and later London, where he specialised in pre-stressed concrete reinforcing systems.

In 1957, he emigrated with his wife and family to South Africa, where he worked for a small engineering firm later became a company director of Guest, Keen & Nettlefold

Mr Johns returned to the UK with GKN in 1969, and retired in 1979.

He lived with his wife Hazel near Hallow, for 48 years and recently nursed her through illness and her death earlier this year.

Mr Johns, who died last Tuesday, leaves two sons Geoff and Rick, and five grandchildren.

"He would always lend a hand or help in whichever way he could," said his son Geoff.

"He served his country, his people and family with absolute distinction. He will be remembered by many for a long time."

His funeral service will be held at Worcester Crematorium tomorrow at 11.30am. Donations to Little Witley District Nurses are c/o funeral directors George Crump and Son.