The man most responsible for turning the dream of a new town outside London into the reality of Basildon has died.

Douglas Galloway, who in the 1970s and 1980s was known as Mr Basildon, designed St Martin's spectacular glass and steel belltower and was the man behind the Eastgate centre. He died on Tuesday at the age of 80.

The bells of St Martin's Church will toll during the funeral next Thursday as the belltower's builders and the church put aside the controversy surrounding its financing to mark the passing of one of Basildon's founding fathers.

The builders, Mowlem, are trying to recuperate debts of £500,000 from St Martin's Parochial Church Council and the bells are rarely used.

William Mayne, who worked under Mr Galloway as a landscape officer at Basildon's Development Corporation, said: "He was an absolute gentleman. "

Mr Galloway worked for Basildon's Development Corporation from the 1950s through to the 1980s as an architect, chief architect planner and finally as general manager.

The corporation was set up by the Government to create a brand new town for people living in the Greater London area.

The belltower, designed by Mr Galloway was officially opened by the Queen in March 1999. Tony Kearney, Mowlem's solicitor, said: "It was a wonderful concept for Basildon and a unique design."

Peter Reid, church warden at St Martin's Church, said: "As a church we are sad."

Mr Galloway once said: "The town has been a large part of my life and I will be back to haunt anyone who hurts it."

Mr Galloway who lived in Basildon for 50 years, leaves behind a son, David. His wife, Brenda, died four years ago. The funeral service will take place at St Martin's Church next Thursday.

Published Friday October 11, 2002

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