TRIBUTES have flooded in this week for a former Hampshire mayor who has died at the age of 78.

Former Test Valley Mayor Tony Jackson lost his battle with pancreatic cancer last month, passing away at the Countess of Brecknock Hospice.

Mr Jackson, who is survived by Andrea, his wife of 50 years, two children and four grandchildren, was first elected onto the borough council in 1987 and represented the Bourne Valley ward for two decades.

Hampshire county councillor Pat West paid tribute to her late friend.

She said: “He was a lovely, lovely man, he always had a smile on his face.

“He was one of the old school and was totally dedicated to his community.

When he spoke people listened. I was very fond of him and his wife Andrea.”

During his 20-year service, the former Vernham Dean and Abbotts Ann resident held several senior positions including chairman of the planning committee and portfolioholder for the environment.

In 1998 he was appointed mayor of Test Valley, holding the position for a year. He finally announced his retirement from the council in 2007.

Another friend of Mr Jackson was the current leader of Test Valley Borough Council, Ian Carr, who was elected onto the council alongside him in 1987.

Cllr Carr said: “Tony and I were elected as councillors on the same day in May 1987, so it was inevitable that we would become friendly.

“Tony worked hard for his community at Vernham Dean and held senior positions while on the council.

“It was an honour and a pleasure to have worked with him.”

The family are also collecting donations for the Countess of Brecknock Hospice, those wishing to give should go to justgiving.com/TonyVJackson.