Tributes have been paid to a “passionate” and “forthright” former mayor.

Marion Ring died at the Heart of Kent Hospice at Aylesford on Tuesday evening.

Conservative Mrs Ring was elected to Maidstone council to represent Shepway North Ward in 2003. She continued to serve until 2023, when her ill health dissuaded her from seeking re-election. She was replaced by Labour’s Cllr Joanna Wilkinson.

She was unusual in modern times in that she was Mayor of Maidstone for two years running, in 2019/20 and 2020/21. That was because her mayoralty fell during the period of the pandemic when the council was unable to meet to hold an election.

Mrs Ring was known for her down-to-earth manner and her great passion when speaking on behalf of her residents.

She was deputy mayor to Cllr Dave Naghi (Lib Dem), who said: “Marion was a very nice, sincere and genuine person.

“She was very passionate and stuck to her guns when defending her ward’s interests, which did not always make her popular with other councillors, but made her very popular with her residents.”

Cllr Martin Round (Con) also paid tribute. He said: “Marion raised many emotions and reactions from deep love and fondness, to respect for her forthright views and spirited debate. Many of us will shed tears. She was a true beacon for her people.”

Council leader David Burton (Con) said: “Marion Ring was one of our most experienced and dedicated councillors in Maidstone.

“She was a very much part of the community, a passionate and committed person.

“It was a privilege to work closely with her and she became a good friend.

“Marion’s blunt directness and genuine, deep caring for her residents was unsurpassed.”

He added: “Her catchphrase of ‘thems my people’ was a testament to the fact that she never forgot her roots and who she was elected to serve.

“I will miss her greatly and our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this very sad time.”

The Mayor of Maidstone, Cllr Gordon Newton, also expressed his “deep sadness.”

Mrs Ring had additionally held various cabinet posts on the council as well as being the chairman of the communities, housing and environment committee.

She had previously worked for over 20 years at Kent County Council and Kent Police.

Mrs Ring is survived by her husband Richard.

Her funeral is expected to be a private family affair.