Tributes are being paid to a passionate campaigner for Faversham after she suddenly passed away at the weekend.

Brenda Chester, who was involved with health issues and a leading member of the fight to rebuild the bridge across the creek, died on Saturday night.

She formed the Faversham Health Matters and served as the group's chair as well as being secretary for the Bridge Steering Committee.

Ms Chester died at the William Harvey Hospital in Ashford with her son by her side.

Her death has been described as "untimely" by friends and fellow campaigners from across the town.

In a statement this afternoon, friends from the Faversham Creek Trust said: "We are very sad to report the untimely death of Brenda Chester, one of the town's most stalwart campaigners.

"She died in the William Harvey Hospital on Saturday night. Her son Karim was with her.

"She was active in so many ways in support of the community, intelligent, effective, organised and central.

"She was the secretary of the Bridge Steering Committee among many other groups.

"We extend our deep condolences to her family and friends."

Ms Chester was instrumental in keeping the cottage hospital open and securing the minor injuries unit which has since been expanded to include an x-ray centre.

Ken Rogers, chair of of Concern for Health in East Kent (CHEK), says she will be "dearly missed".

He said: "It’s been an honour and a privilege to have known Brenda for many many years the people of Faversham have so much to thank her for.

"Her passion, determination, focus and unrelenting campaigning has made a huge difference."

Mr Rogers says he hopes her passion to make life for Faversham residents better will be recognised.

"We cannot let someone like Brenda pass through our lives without some sought of recognition," he said.

"There is a growing level of support for when the bridge is secured, and I know it will. Then it should been named the Brenda Chester Bridge.

"God bless her and my thoughts are with her family."

County and town councillor Antony Hook said: "I was very sad to hear Brenda passed away at the weekend.

"She really cared about this town and especially did a lot for the Brents area."