The daughter of a much-loved former Wandsworth councillor who passed away last month has paid tribute to her “best friend and wisest counsel”.

Martin Hime, who served as a Conservative in West Putney between 2002 and 2006, passed away on August 7 in the home where he was born.

Mr Hime, who lived in Dover House Road and was also a governor of Granard Primary School, lost his battle to lung cancer at the age of 82.

His daughter, Cordelia Meacher, said: “I have lost my best friend and my wisest counsel. I’m happy that he’s no longer suffering.

“I’m very proud of the contribution Dad made in the Foreign Office and also in Putney.

“I’d like to pay tribute to Trinity Hospice and Marie Curie Cancer Care, who both helped us in being able to keep him at home.”

Mr Hime was diagnosed with the disease 18 months ago, and died peacefully with his family by his side.

He leaves behind his children, Martin, Marigold, Juliet, Jessica and Cordelia, who described him as a “truly wonderful father”.

As news spread of his passing, residents paid tribute to a “true gentleman” and a Conservative of the “old school” who approved of lively debate.

Before his time on the council, Mr Hime was a diplomat - working during the 1980s the USA and coming into contact with Bill Clinton, who was then Governor of Arkansas.

His high-flying job also took him to Bangladesh, South Africa, Japan, Argentina and Germany.

In his younger days, he was personal assistant to Marcus Sieff, the son of Israel Sieff, who helped found Marks and Spencer as a family business.

He was educated at Kings College, Wimbledon, and Cambridge University - before serving in the army.

Councillor Jim Madden said: “I had known Martin as a fellow councillor for the past eight years and regarded him as a good friend - and a good friend to Putney.”

Mr Hime’s beloved wife, Janina, a former teacher at Granard Primary School, passed away in 2002.