TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Thurrock councillor and ex-mayor.

Diane Revell stood as a councillor for more than 10 years and completed a year standing as mayor in 2007-08.

Diane and her husband, Mike, were well respected councillors in the community and tributes have flooded in in her memory.

Both Diane and her husband represented the Conservative party, but tributes have flooded in from across the political spectrum.

Mrs Revell, who stood in the Orsett ward, stepped down in 2012 and then moved to Kent with her husband.

James Halden, Conservative in the Homesteads ward, said: “Heartbroken to hear of the passing of former Mayor, Diane Revell.

“Diane & Mike were so kind to myself as a young councillor in 2010. They gave so much to all young members during a lifetime of public service. Diane went from 1 of 2 Tory councillors, to our mayor. A class act.”

Labour councillor, John Kent, of the Grays ward, said: “I am saddened to hear of the passing of Diane Revell. Diane was a thoughtful and considered local councillor - whenever Diane spoke it was worth listening.

“Diane had a real warmth that always shone through, she was a fantastic mayor of Thurrock and  will be missed.”

Shane Hebb, Conservative councillor for the Stanford West ward, said: “So saddened that former Thurrock Mayoress, Cllr Diane Revell, has passed away.

“Diane was graceful and brought a distinguished slant to the mayoralty.

“I remember her stories about living above a shop in her early days - and she went on to achieve so much in life.

“An inspiration.”