Councillors have been paying tribute to the chairman of Mole Valley District Council who passed away last week.

Bookham South Liberal Democrat Councillor Anne Howarth died on Thursday (July 28) after suffering from a stomach illness.

She had been a member of the council since May 2004 and had been elected as chairman of the council in May this year.

Leader of the Opposition at Mole Valley, Councillor Margaret Cooksey, said: “Anne was a valued Member of the Council and her contribution to Bookham South and Mole Valley will be greatly missed.”

Darren Mepham, Chief Executive at Mole Valley said: “Anne was well loved and respected by Members and Officers alike and her valued and sound contributions at Council meetings will be greatly missed.

"Everyone was enjoying Anne’s year as Chairman.”

Coun Howarth was a retired teacher who worked with children with learning and behavioural difficulties.

Her keen interests in the council included the provision of affordable housing and she had previously worked as a Warden in two sheltered housing schemes.

She leaves behind her husband John, a son and two granddaughters.