Tributes have been paid to a former Mayor of Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge who has died this week.
Hilary Rose was a town councillor from 1991-1999 and also stood from 2003-2007, during which time she was Mayor between 1995-1998. She was also a Sedgemoor District Councillor from 1995-1999.
Friend and current town councillor Pat Burge told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Hilary was a lovely lady, who was very independent.”
“She was a very private person who was very thoughtful and a great supporter of the community.”
Town Clerk Denise Emery said that councillors had been informed of the sad news this week. She added: “Hilary was a very well respected councillor by all sides who will be missed.”
Hilary was Chairman of the Management Committee at Burnham Sea Cadets for many years – one of several groups she supported.
Hilary, who lived in Burnham town centre, passed away on Tuesday at Broughton Lodge Nursing Home in Berrow Road, Burnham.
A spokesman from Broughton Lodge said: “Even in her last year she retained her public-spirited nature and sense of occasion. Although by now quite seriously ill, she nevertheless attended and enjoyed a carol recital at Broughton Lodge, typically calling for silence from the large audience of residents and families at the end to thank the local Curtain Call entertainment group for their efforts.”
Pictured: Hilary Rose (second from left) with the current Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg, MP Tessa Munt and councillor Mike Mansfield in 2007
Hilary received a Civic Award in 2008 alongside John Coombes, Bob Nicholson, Barbara Thorogood and Jean Whitehouse
Hilary was a strong supporter of Burnham Sea Cadets, where she was Chairman of the Unit’s Management Committee
Cllr Hilary Rose with Cllr Pat Burge and then-Mayor Eric Gill in 2005
