A FORMER mayor of Ross-on-Wye has died.

Colin Gray had long served as a town councillor for Ross and was mayor from 2014 to 2016.

A post on the Ross-on-Wye Town Carnival Facebook page said: "It is with the greatest of sadness that we hear of the passing of Mr Colin Gray- a massive part of Carnival for many many years - we are thinking of Anne and the family at this sad time and know that through Carnival the spirit of Colin will carry on for a long time- our deepest respect to a great ambassador for our town and our Carnival."

Town councillor Hannah Lerego paid tribute to Councillor Gray. She said: "Very sad news indeed he was a true 'Man of Ross' in every sense of the word. He had such dedication to this community."

Coun Gray died on July 13 - the Mayor, councillors and staff of Ross-on-Wye Town Council sent their condolences to his family.

A statement from the town council said: "Colin had been a councillor for many years and served as mayor between 2014-2016.

"He was a quiet, dedicated man who worked hard, often behind the scenes without seeking praise or recognition.

"Colin has been a pillar of the community for so many years and he will be sorely missed by all who knew him."

The current mayor of Ross Harry Bramer added: "Colin was a dedicated councillor who always endeavoured to do the best for local residents - I first met him in discussions over the community centre at Tudorville and was delighted when his hard work secured that facility for the people of that community . He will be sadly missed by us all .

"Our thoughts go out to his wife -  former county councillor Anne Gray - and we extend our condolences to her and her family."