A Christian church denomination is mourning the loss of a "godfather" who played an "inspirational" role supporting people living in war-torn countries.

John Arthur OBE, who died aged 83 on November 14, held numerous leadership positions in the Seventh-day Adventist church, which is headquartered at Stanborough Park in Garston.

In particular, Mr Arthur involved himself heavily in the church's humanitarian agency, the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA).

ADRA UK chief executive Bert Smit said: "ADRA’s Godfather passed away on November 14. Under his leadership, ADRA, in the UK, starting shipping aid to war-torn countries thus laying the foundation for the agency to develop into a full-fledged aid agency.

"John was an inspiration for all of us that have carried the ADRA banner after him. His energy and ability to push forward was unrelenting, even well into his retirement."

Watford Observer: John Arthur. Credit: The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA)John Arthur. Credit: The Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA)

Writing on a Just Giving page set up in Mr Arthur's memory, Mr Smit paid tribute to Mr Arthur's wife, Ruth, and children Christine and Andrew.

He says the fundraising page has been launched to raise money for children in Albania.

Mr Smit wrote: "To honour John, Ruth and the family are inviting donations towards a cause close to his heart: children in Albania. John had a great love for Albania and at one point there was even a 'John Arthur' school.

"With your help we want to honour John's memory by supporting children's education in Albania. Thank you for your help."

The fundraising page can be found at https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/johnarthur