THE funeral will take place today of Len Green, a former SDLP mayor of Derry.
Mr Green has been described as a "dedicated public representative" following his death on Sunday after a short illness. He was 86.
Originally from Salford outside Manchester, Mr Green first visited Derry as a sailor before moving to live in the city after meeting his future wife Lily.
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood paid tribute to Mr Green, a civil rights activist and councillor who served as mayor of Derry in 1983.
"Very sad to hear about Len Green's passing," he said.
"A dedicated public representative in the most difficult of times. RIP."
In paying tribute SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan said: "His keen sense of justice made him a civil rights activist and then a member of the SDLP on its foundation.
"He served all in his adopted city well in his many years on Derry City Council and in his term as mayor of the city.
"Len Green had a very determined analysis and was unshakeable in his pursuit of an issue. His wry outlook and apparently detached manner, combined with a sharpness of judgment and a keenness for argument made him a stalwart city father."
Requiem Mass for Mr Green will be celebrated at St Eugene's Cathedral, Derry today at 10am followed by interment in the City Cemetery.
