A 53-year-old dad has been described as a “pillar of the community” following his death after a long battle with illness.

Gideon Scott, the chairman of Herne Bay Town Partners, died on Sunday, eight months after he was diagnosed with cancer.

He had helped to put on the air show, classic car shows and several events at the Clock Tower, while also being a governor at Herne Bay High School.

A colleague of his, Chris West, described Mr Scott as a “leader” who was “always available to lend a hand for a local event”.

“He’ll be a great loss to Herne Bay,” he said.

“He lived here for a number of years, was totally involved with everything and always wanted to help the community.”

Mr Scott also chaired the Herne Bay Festival in 2017 and was a board member at the Friends of Herne Bay Clock Tower.

Mr West added: “He was a great communicator and a friend, with a beaming smile and a great sense of humour.

“Gideon Scott will be sadly missed by all who had the pleasure of working and knowing him.”

An experienced property law solicitor at Bull & Bull in the High Street, Mr Scott had a partner and teenage son.