TRIBUTES have been paid to a dedicated councillor who will be remembered for her community-driven attitude.

Jean Gardner worked tirelessly during her time on Tilehurst Parish Council (TPC) since 1973 and was involved in a number of projects in that time.

Prior to this, she was a member of the district and county council and she had the honour of being chairman in the late 90s.

She held the role in 1997-98 – the year that saw Newbury District Council become a unitary authority – and this is something she was particularly proud of.

Jean remained a firm favourite at the parish council and was re-elected unanimously for the last 33 years.

Kevin Page, vice-chair of TPC, said: "Jean's dedication, energy and enthusiastic work on behalf of the community were an inspiration to all of us.

"She will be sadly missed by all the parish councillors and members of staff. Our thoughts are with her family at this difficult time."

As well as giving up much of her time for the council, she was instrumental in the development of both the Cotswold Sports Centre and the Westwood Farm Community Association.

A community champion through and through, Jean would regularly assist with school appeals and Reading and Wokingham.

In recent years, she was heavily involved in delivering the Little Heath skate park project, taking the time to speak with children about what they wanted to see from the facility.

A spokesman for the town council added: "Jean was a generous and selfless lady who will be greatly missed by all her friends and colleagues in Tilehurst."

A funeral service is due to be held at West Berkshire Crematorium in Thatcham on March 1 at 3pm.

Donations can be made to Carebus Volunteer Group in memory of Jean at: carebuscommunitytransport.org