Tributes paid to Players man

Mr Moulton, pictured far right, moved from London to Shoreham in 1955, with his wife Frances, after the birth of their first child, Stephen.

He joined the staff of the Palnut Company, in Hove, where he worked for many years, becoming its managing director until the company closed. In the 1970s, he was chairman of the Sussex Federation of Engin-eering and later became clerk to Lancing Parish Council, holding this post for 15 years until his retirement.

Mr Moulton joined Wick Thea-tre Company and became a resp-ected, leading member, enjoying acting and playing many major roles for the company.

He first appeared on the Barn stage in 1957 as the Episcopalian minister in Life with Father. He took the title role in Othello, the first Shakespeare play presented at the Barn.

He also appeared in many other plays, including The Lion in Winter, 1972, and My Fair Lady and When We Are Married in 1976.

His friend Betty Dawes said: "As a director in the theatre, his productions of Cabaret in 1988 and Fings Ain't What They Used To Be, in 1981, received many plaudits."

In the 1960s and '70s, Brian and Frances and other friends from the Wick spent training weekends and rehearsals at Lodge Hill, near Pulborough, working with the county drama adviser, George Rawlings, on productions for the County Players.

In his later years, Mr Moulton became president of Southwick Players, only giving up the post to spend more time with his wife Frances, who was unwell.

Until the time of his death, he continued his work as honorary secretary for Southwick Community Centre, and as chairman of the general management committee.

Mrs Dawes said: "Brian was a great family man to his son Stephen and daughter Barbara, and an adored grandfather and great-grandfather.

"He was always willing to help and advise, always generous to his friends and to the community he served and enjoyed so much.

"Brian was a special man, greatly loved, who will be missed by so many people."