Tributes have been paid to a “unique” Halstead pensioner who fought for better public transport for the disabled.

Mobility scooter user John Teasdale has died aged 82 and is perhaps best remembered for appearing on the front page of the Halstead Gazette when his protest with a bus firm brought traffic to a stand still.

Bachelor Mr Teasdale blocked the bus’s way after he was refused entry because another mobility scooter user was already on board.

The police were called to remove him, so he then started his “slow go” protest by travelling at a snail’s pace through Halstead.

His nephew, builder David Teasdale, of Colne Engaine, said: “A lot of people didn’t realise quite what was behind his actions and when you explained it, they realised he was not mad.

“He would get hold of something like that and wouldn’t let it go.

“I’m quite proud of him for that. He was definitely unique.

“He was trying to help all disabled people in wheelchairs.”