"One in a million" Maisie Seager, a veteran city councillor, has died.

President of the Herne Bay branch of the Royal British Legion, vice-president of Herne Bay sea cadets, former Canterbury sheriff and a city councillor for many years, Maisie Seager was a stalwart part of the community.

The 87-year-old passed away peacefully at her home with a carer from Crossroads, Herne Bay on Friday morning.

Her granddaughter Emma Bartle has voiced the grief that has echoed around the community since the news of her death: "You will never find another Maisie.

"She was strong-willed, incredibly caring and she fought for what she believed in.

"If she thought she was right, there was no stopping her and that made her a fantastic councillor."

A lover of Cliff Richard, animals and most of all, her greatgrandchildren, Maisie was a "strong character" who made an impact on everyone she met.

She was well known for 11 years as Liberal Democrat councillor for the Heron ward in Herne Bay and for her controversial defect to the Conservative party in 1995.

At 76-years-old, she caused a stir when she decided she was better placed with the Tories.

Always thinking of her constituents, she said at the time: "I am still Maisie Seager and I won't suddenly switch off to their needs."

The outspoken councillor was always at the heart of campaigns and fundraising efforts across the district and continued to be a councillor into her 70s.

She was the sheriff of Canterbury from 1995 to 1996 and had lived in Herne Bay for more than 40 years.

Emma continued: "She was always smiling and had so many friends who loved her dearly.

"Until right at the end, she fought for the best in life and continued to smile. She will never be forgotten."

Maisie's funeral is yet to be arranged but pick up a copy of next week's Gazette for full details.

Maisie died with little funds for her funeral so her family are attempting to raise the money to give her the best possible send off.

With her love for horses, the family's dream is to have a horse-drawn hearse.

Would you like to contribute? Contact Emma on 07933837212 or contact the Gazette newsroom: kentishgazette@thekmgroup.co.uk

Did you know Maisie? Leave your memories and condolences with a comment below.