A FORMER mayor and long-serving town councillor died at the weekend.

Ken Denton, a Horwich town councillor for 16 years, passed away on Sunday surrounded by his family. He had been suffering from cancer.

The 76-year-old served in the Army and worked for the fire service, spending three years as chief officer at Horwich fire station.

He served as the Mayor of Horwich on two separate occasions, in 2007-08 and 2015-16.

Horwich North East councillor Richard Silvester said: “Ken was a very well-respected member of the Horwich community who served on Horwich Town Council for many years and was town mayor twice.

“He also fundraised for the Royal British Legion and his public service to the town, fire brigade and Army will be remembered with gratitude," he added.

“He was attending Horwich Town Council meetings via Zoom right up to the end.

“My condolences are to Sue, his wife, and his family.”

Chris Green, MP for Bolton West and Atherton, tweeted: “Sad news to hear that a great community champion has passed away. Rest in peace Ken.”

The party he was a part of, Horwich and Blackrod First Independents (HBFI), has also paid tribute to him.

A spokesman said: “HBFI members were saddened to hear that our friend, colleague, founding member and grandfather of our group Kenneth Malcolm Denton passed away peacefully with his family by his side at the weekend.

“Ken saved the Horwich branch of the Royal British Legion after the members' club closed down and is now one of the most active in Lancashire having over 60 members and volunteers and won a Poppy Appeal award for fundraising.

“Out of respect, a moment’s silence will be held at the next council meeting to remember a dedicated and principled man of service.”

Cllr David Grant added: “Ken became a friend and a mentor, someone I could sound ideas off, I will miss my friend and colleague dearly, a principled, honest and dedicated man who always had time for others."