FORMER Alcester mayor Eric Payne has passed away following a short illness.
Coun Payne twice served as mayor during more than 16 years on Alcester Town Council. He also held the Alcester ward seat on Stratford District Council since 2007.
Coun Eric Payne had served the residents of Alcester ward as a district councillor since 2007. He was also chairman of the district council in 2011/12, and during his time on the district council was also vice-chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Committee and served on Planning Committee (West).
He lived in Alcester all his life, was the third of seven children, and was educated at St Faiths School.
He spent most of his working life working in light industry and food distribution. He was employed as a production operator and held several managerial positions.
District council chairman Christopher Kettle said: “We have lost a highly respected and conscientious councillor, who was well liked and valued by his colleagues.
“Throughout my time as a councillor, I always recognised in Eric his quiet common sense approach to issues and problems. He was always ready to listen and his comments were always well thought through. He devoted much time and energy to the council both as the former chairman, carrying the flag for the district, and as a councillor.
“We will miss him and his loss will be felt across the district. Our thoughts however at this time are with his wife Maggie and family.”
