Tributes have been paid to a kind and witty former mayor who died following a battle with cancer.

Mike Henderson was well regarded and respected for his activity as a politician and outspoken advocate for Faversham.

The 79-year-old, who died on May 29, leaves a massive void having spent decades immersing himself in the town and its people.

Having lived in Faversham for more than 40 years, he held important positions within both Swale Borough Council and Faversham Town Council, where he served under the Liberal Democrats banner.

Mayor of Faversham between 1995 and 1996, Mike also served as an Honorary Alderman of Swale, and sat as a trustee on the boards of many causes including Faversham Pools, Friends of Oare Gunpowder Works and Faversham Lakes.

In 2021, Mike was awarded the Freedom of Faversham, regarded by himself as a contender for the pinnacle of his career.

Fellow Lib Dem and councillor Hannah Perkin paid tribute to her mentor, stressing: “Doing local politics won't be quite the same without him”.

She said: “Mike was a dedicated public servant who has worked hard for the people of Faversham, and especially those in the Priory ward.”

“We have lost a huge part of our local Lib Dem team and doing local politics won't be quite the same without him, his sage advice, quick wit, kindness and the occasional summoning to Bridge House to be set straight by him about something.

“We will all miss him dearly as I'm sure his residents will too.

“At this difficult time, our thoughts are especially with his family whom he absolutely adored and was so proud of.”

Former leader of Swale Borough Council Mike Baldock added: “This is very sad - he was one of the most knowledgable councillors in Swale, and I had a huge amount of respect for him despite our differences. It lessens the Council a lot now he has gone.”

Teynham and Lynsted Conservative ward member Lloyd Bowen said: “The council has lost another great councillor who will be fondly remembered far after these dark days.”

Mike had lived in Faversham for more than 40 years and in that time immersed himself in supporting causes which he was passionate about including Faversham Swimming Pools, Oare Gunpowder Works and Faversham Lakes as well as being Faversham Mayor and a Town and Borough Councillor.

Outside of politics, Mr Henderson had worked as a successful businessman – his most recent role was as a partner in a nearby training firm which he had helped to build up and had been very proud of.

Married for 40 years, Mike was widowed four years ago when his wife Mary died but he is survived by his three children, Julia, Toby and Tom and four grandchildren, Adam, Will, Alice and Jemima.

In a family statement, his children said: “We've all said he was an amazing dad. He was a great role model.

“He wasn't a particularly emotional man, but we always knew he was there for us.

“He helped us with our careers and getting on the right track and always interested in what we did.

“We are all very proud of his achievements and have been overwhelmed by the messages of support since he passed away.”