Tireless charity champion John Griffiths remembered with new electric minibus

A Burgess Hill man through and through, John decided that he wanted to make a difference to the local community following a long and successful career in banking.

He made quite an impact.

Initially with Bluebird Community Transport, he rose to become its chairman in 2006.

Following the formation and successful running of Crawley CT & Horsham and District CT, he then oversaw a complex merger to form Community Transport Sussex, becoming its chairman in 2016.

His wife, Heather, said that he was never afraid to get his hands dirty, and might often be seen mending the tail gate of a minibus.

At the same time, John was a tireless trustee for Burgess Hill based charity, Mid Sussex (South) Council for Voluntary Services.

He became its Chairman in 2007, stepping down in 2015 following yet another complex merger.

Colleagues at Mid Sussex Voluntary Action who worked with him recall a very dynamic person.

John was larger than life, always with a smile and not one to be put off by problems.

He was also involved with many other charities, including Mid Downs Crossroads Limited, Help at Home Plus (Mid Sussex) and St Andrews Trust.

For all his idiosyncratic ways, John was a mover and shaker who certainly got things done in an inimitable style.

Without his wisdom, drive, commitment and energy much of the exciting work these charities do today would not have happened.

John truly had a positive impact on the lives of so many without ever seeking recognition or praise.

His loss has been felt throughout the voluntary sector in West Sussex.

John was a proud and loving husband, father and grandfather.