TRIBUTES have been paid to a 'true friend' and former Burnham and Highbridge mayor who has died.

Martin Cox, 72, passed away peacefully at Weston Hospice on Saturday (July 27) with his wife Arlene and relatives at his side after a long battle with poor health.

Martin served as a town councillor for eight years and was mayor of Burnham and Highbridge in 2013 and 2014.

He was well known in Burnham-on-Sea and was a longstanding supporter of BARB Search and Rescue and Burnham RNLI .

Cllr Andy Brewer, Mayor of Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, said Martin will be sadly missed by the council.

He said: "Martin was elected to the town council in 2011 and was already well known within the community particularly for his longstanding support of B.A.R.B. and RNLI for which he received a Civic Award in 2004.

"Martin served as a town councillor for 8 years being re-elected in 2015 and was Mayor for two years in 2013 & 2014, and with his wife Arlene they were a very popular Mayor and Mayoress.

"They took a particular interest in the many groups within our community that care for others.

"Martin was a valued member of the town council and served on various committees including Burial, Planning and the Staffing Committee that he chaired during 2017 & 2018.

"When Martin became ill a few years ago he was often unable to attend meetings due to his on-going treatment, but continued to show a real concern for others never drawing attention to his own problems.

"Martin was very much a 'glass half full' type of person and will be sadly missed by his many colleagues and friends within the community."

Paul Young, a friend of Martin's also paid tribute to him and described him as a 'kind' man who was 'always there to lend a hand' when you needed it.

He said: "I was friends with Martin for more than 30 years and we had many adventures sailing together.

"More than that Martin gave his time without reward for so many good causes including BARB, RNLI and the town council.

"He was always there to lend a hand, he even ran me to hospital twice.

"My heart goes out to his family for a husband, grandfather and father who always gave you 100 per cent.

"Thank you Martin for being a true friend."