Town pays its respects to seven times Mayor of Market Rasen

The funeral for the seven-times Mayor of Market Rasen was held on Monday (March 22) at Lincoln Crematorium.

As he made his final journey through the town he loved, people stood in silence, both in the town’ market place and at his home in Willingham Road.

It wasn’t just Rasen residents who wanted to pay their respects - the Chairman of West Lindsey District Council, Steve England, and MP Sir Edward Leigh also attended.

In line with current restrictions, only a limited number of people were allowed to attend the funeral service.

One of those was Deputy Mayor, Stephen Bunney, who said the service focused on the life, service and friendships of Mr Matthews.

Coun Bunney paid tribute to his friend and civic colleague at the service, as did former deputy mayor Martin Harvey and head teacher of De Aston School Simon Porter, who described John Matthews as a ‘force for good’.

There was also a moving tribute from John’s wife Jayne, read out by their son Mark.

The Rector Market Rasen, the Rev Claire Walker led the service.

Coun Bunney said: “The event was extremely well supported, both at the crematorium and at the roadside.

“And there were all walks of life represented, showing John’s broad reach.”