It is with deepest regret that we have to announce the passing of one of the South East’s most prominent party activists, Adam Champneys.

“Mr Champneys passed away after a long and hard-fought illness,” reported South East regional organiser Andy McBride.

“He stood in European and local elections for a party that, in his own words, he loved,” Mr McBride said.

“In a letter he wrote just days before he passed away, he said that there ‘is only one party for patriotic Englishmen these days, a party that stands for honesty and integrity and I am proud and honoured to be in it’.”

Mr Champneys had many close personal friends, including Nick and Jackie Griffin. The BNP leader and his wife would often stay over with the Champneys in their rural hide away.

Crawley BNP activist Richard Trower, who was a personal friend of Adam and his wife Jan, said, “We haven’t just lost a comrade who gave everything in spreading the word of British nationalism, but a true friend who supported everyone regardless of position.

“He was one of the most down-to-earth men one could ever wish to meet. I shall miss him dearly,” Mr Trower said.

Mr McBride said that party had “lost a true and honourable friend.

“When I last spoke with Adam, he said he hoped to live to see his friend Nick Griffin elected as MP. Sadly this wasn’t to be granted to him, but one can be sure that he will be looking down on Nick as he takes those first steps into Westminster. Rest in peace dear friend.”