A Magherafelt general practitioner who played a key role in the campaign to legalise medicinal cannabis has died.

Dr John Burton passed away on Thursday, June 18. His funeral will be held on Tuesday, June 23, in Cullyhanna, south Armagh, with Requiem Mass at 11am in St Patrick's Church, followed by interment in the adjoining cemetery.

Dr Burton was closely associated with Charlotte Caldwell, a Co Tyrone mother who fought for access to cannabis-based treatment for her son Billy, who has a severe form of epilepsy. Her public campaign prompted a government review and led to a 2018 law change allowing specialist doctors to prescribe cannabis-based medicinal products.

In a social media post, Ms Caldwell recounted how Dr Burton first became involved with her family in 2006 when Billy was sent home with a terminal prognosis. She said he supported them through numerous medical and legal challenges, including when Billy's medication was confiscated at Heathrow Airport, and stood alongside them during the campaign that ultimately altered UK policy.

She described him as a doctor who acted without agenda or desire for recognition, and who provided genuine, selfless care over nearly twenty years.

Mid Ulster SDLP MLA Patsy McGlone offered condolences, describing Dr Burton as a good and caring friend and a dedicated doctor.

Former patients in the Moneymore area also paid tribute, remembering him as a compassionate GP who placed patient care at the centre of his work.

Dr Burton is survived by his wife Noeleen, children Eimear, Louise and Paul, and grandchildren Aoife and Jack. He was predeceased by his parents Jack and Peggy and his siblings Paul and Mary.