TRIBUTES have been paid to last year's mayor of Northwich who died on Saturday, aged 79.

Leftwich man Bob Robinson joined Northwich Town Council in 2004 and served as mayor twice, in 2008 and 2013.

The council held a minute's silence in his memory and in tribute to Honorary Alderman Ron Carey, who died in February, at their meeting on Monday night.

Town mayor Cllr Alison Gerrard said: "I was sad to hear the news about former councillor and mayor Bob Robinson.

"He served on the council for a long time before his retirement and worked hard for the people of Northwich.

"Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time."

His friend and fellow former town councillor George Mainwaring said: "He was a real gentleman, Bob.

"He was a good bloke for Northwich and a good family man."

Bob lived in Lime Avenue and died peacefully at home after an illness.

He leaves wife Jan, son David, daughter-in-law Michelle and grandson Lewis.

In his final mayoral year Bob proudly visited Lewis' at his school, Moulton School, where he had been a pupil himself during war time.

Winsford town councillor Mike Kennedy was Winsford's mayor during the same year.

"Bob was so full of life and fun that whenever we were invited to attend an official engagement at Northwich our attendance was accepted immediately and with eager anticipation at the laughs we would share," he said.

"Our thoughts at this sad time are with Bob's wife Jan, a lovely lady, and Bob's family.

"The town of Northwich has not only lost a marvellous ex councillor and mayor but, more importantly, a truly remarkable person and family man."

During his two terms as mayor Bob was a keen supporter of Northwich charity Multi Sports Club, which meets at Northwich Youth Club.

He inspired Winnington couple Joanne and Wayne Storey to organise a fundraiser for the club and they plan to hold the event, the Magic of Music, in the autumn.

Joanne said: "He was very warm hearted and he loved those kids at Multi Sports and they loved him.

"He raised a lot of money for them and we would like to carry on in his honour – we will hold The Magic of Music in Bob's honour."

His funeral takes place at Vale Royal Crematorium at 12.15pm on Thursday, March 12.