TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Mayor of Oswestry who died.

Heather Bickerton was a councillor from the early 1990s through to her retirement in 2013.

She also ran the popular Vaughan's shop in Beatrice Street with her husband John for many years.

Leading the tributes, the current mayor of Oswestry, Councillor Mark Jones said she was much-loved public servant and praised her civic service.

He said: “I was sad to hear of Heather's passing.

"For more than three decades Heather served a long and distinguished service to Oswestry as both a borough councillor and town councillor and was a respected community stalwart.

"As borough councillor and borough mayor, she held a great interest and knowledge in planning.

"Elected as a town councillor from 1991, Heather was chairman of the Amenities Committee, mayor from 2000-2001 and a great campaigner on police and health issues.

"After stepping down in 2013, Heather continued to keep an interest in issues that affected the community.

“She was a committed public servant and was fiercely loyal to Oswestry.

"She wanted the best for the town and its people and stood up for what she believed in.

"The flag on the Guildhall will be lowered as a mark of respect and in recognition of Mrs Bickerton’s service as mayor."