by Nick Evans

A former Mayor of Swale and long-time supporter of the ex-service community has died.

Jean Newman passed away on Sunday, aged 79, after being taken ill earlier this year.

Mrs Newman was ward councillor for Teynham and Lynstead between 1982 and 2002 and was Swale’s mayor between 1989 and 1991.

Swale council leader Cllr Andrew Bowles said: “This is very sorry news.

“Jean’s untimely death is a sad loss not only to her husband and family but to the community she served so well.

“She was a dedicated long-term borough and county councillor and I was privileged to take over her county seat when she stood down in 2005.

“She did untold good for the Soldiers', Sailors', Airmen and Families' Association (SSAFA) and her passing means we have lost not just a great community servant but a good friend.”

Brian Lyons, welfare officer of SSAFA, said: “Jean was a fantastic lady who really supported the ex-service community. She will be very much missed.”

She was also a vice president of Sheerness Royal British Legion.

Mrs Newman’s funeral will be on June 18 at Teynham church from 1.30pm.