A former chairman of Braintree Mencap and member of Essex County Council's social services committee has died.

Jim Hall, 81, of Greenstead Green, near Halstead, died on January 2.

Born in Clapton, east London, Mr Hall spent his childhood years in north London.

He volunteered for service in the RAF during the Second World War and his duties saw him take part in the clear-up operation of concentration camps in Europe.

As a result of this harrowing work, Mr Hall contracted tuberculosis. This led to permanent lung damage and his special understanding of the needs of people with respiratory problems led him to take up employment as an oxygen therapist in London.

Mr Hall and his wife, Winnie, became regular helpers at the Gateway Club, Braintree, for people with learning disabilities, eventually becoming chairman of the Gateway Club and also chairman of Braintree Mencap.

He also acted as welfare officer for Essex Mencap and became a member of Essex County Council's social services committee.

Published Friday, January 10, 2003

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