TRIBUTES have been paid to a "dignified" and "passionate" former councillor who has died aged 85.

Pauline Hayward represented the Churchill and Blakedown ward on Wyre Forest District Council from 1982 to 2004 and then the expanded Chaddesley and Blakedown ward from 2004 to 2015 until she retired. 

She was chairman of the council in 2003 and 2004 and served on many committees. 

She was made an Honorary Alderman in 2015 on her retirement in recognition of her service. 

Pauline, who passed away on Sunday (August 14), also served on Churchill and Blakedown Parish Council for many years and was involved in Churchill Church 

Wyre Forest District councillors paid tribute to Pauline on Facebook. 

Kidderminster Shuttle: Pauline was made an Honorary Alderman in 2015Pauline was made an Honorary Alderman in 2015

Councillor Marcus Hart said: "When I was a young newly elected back bench councillor back in 2002, she was kind and welcoming to me and gave me much support and advice. 

"She was a wonderful lady, passionate and caring and gave everything to representing her community. 

"By the time she retired in 2015, our roles had completely reversed and I was the leader of the Conservative group and the council and she was tremendously supportive of me, but never afraid to speak out and speak her mind which such passion and wisdom.

"Pauline touched the lives of many and will be deeply missed. She is now reunited with Geoff and Brett and my thoughts and prayers are with Bryony and her family at this time".

Councillor Fran Oborski added: "Pauline was a dignified lady who gave very great service to her parish and to the whole of Wyre Forest.

"She worked across party political divides in the interest of the whole community and will be sadly missed".

Councillor Peter Young said: "May she rest in peace. She made a valuable contribution to the community."

Councillor Nathan Desmond said: "Pauline always conducted herself with grace and dignity and had the highest standards."