A FORMER Hampshire mayor and councillor who dedicated the best part of two decades to the Fareham borough has passed away.

John Bryant died peacefully at the age of 78 at Rowan’s Hospice, in Waterlooville, on Tuesday.

The former Fareham mayor and councillor was well known for the time he spent as the chairman of Hampshire County Council.

He was also admitted to the roll of Honorary Alderman of the Borough of Fareham in 2016, for recognition of his services as a long-standing councillor.

Councillor Sean Woodward, the leader of Fareham Borough Council, described Mr Bryant as a 'dedicated' man.

He added: “Mr Bryant was recognised as a hardworking Fareham and Hampshire County Council councillor. I knew him quite well, he will be deeply missed as a friend, colleague and councillor."

Councillor Trevor Cartwright, deputy leader for Fareham Borough Council, added: "He will be sadly missed as a colleague and a friend who was a straightforward hardworking councillor who worked exceptionally well for his residents for both authorities."

Mr Bryant represented the north of the borough from 1999 until 2016 on Fareham Borough Council, serving as mayor from 2006 to 2007. He was also a councillor on Hampshire County Council throughout this time.

As well as this, he served as chairman and vice-chairman on a number of committees including overseeing highways, planning, transport and the environment.

A civic funeral will be held for Mr Bryant on Tuesday, April 18, at St Peter and St Paul's Church, in Osborn Road, Fareham.