Tributes have been paid to a dentist well-loved for his community spirit following his death.

Doctor Rex Whitehurst, 92, formerly a key figure on the Local Dental Committee of Brent and Harrow, has died aged 92 after suffering with dementia.

The Australian native ended up in the UK after serving in the Australian Air Force, in the Second World War.

Following the war, Dr Whitehurst retrained as a dentist, working both for the NHS at Chalkhill Heath Centre and in private practises before settling in Wembley where he lived for 60 years, retiring at age 86.

The father-of-three was very active in the community, performing in and volunteering for around 100 shows with the Wembley Operatic Society in Pinner, and never missed a show in 50 years.

Daughter Dr Antje Antje Whitehurst said: “My father was a very sturdy, relaiable and supportive man.

“He tried to make us as self-reliant as possible, but he could overlook any problems and he was kind, almost to a fault.

“He was devoted to his family, but he regarded anyone in his circle with the same degree and loyalty.”

Professionally, Dr Whitehurst was focused on caring for the community rather than financial gain.

Antje added: “I remember helping him when I was 12 years old in his surgery on a Saturday morning.

“The way he looked after his patients definitely had an impact on me as a doctor. He supported me when I was studying medicine and helped me keep my focus.

“He really taught me how to listen to people, the irony that as a dentist he had his hands in people mouths so that they couldn’t speak to him.”

A service will be held for him at St Mary's Church, St Marys Road, Ealing on a date yet to be confirmed after June 26.

Anyone wishing to make a donation or for more information contact James Crook Funeral Directors, of Bridge Road, Wembley on 020 8904 4193.