MAURICE Cooper was Mayor of Marlborough twice, and lived to see his son Mark become the town’s current mayor.

Although very ill, he was delighted to see Mark carry on the family tradition and become Marlborough’s 710th mayor in May.

Mark said “ My father was the most honest, decent, kind and gentle man I have ever known. He was an amazing husband and father and I will miss him, think of him and love him every day for the rest of my life and I am very very proud to be his son.”

Although his parents were from Marlborough, Maurice was born in Swindon where his father was managing the family butchering business. After leaving school Maurice worked in the business in Marlborough.

When his cousin formed the 1st ATC squadron in Marlborough he was the first to join. He continued rising up the ranks to become the commanding officer in Marlborough and finished his career as a Flight Lieutenant.

He loved cars, especially Minis and 4x4 and in his younger days loved taking part in rally car racing.

Maurice met his future wife Rosemary at the church youth club and he was a lifelong member of the church. Maurice also enjoyed bell ringing and rang the bells on numerous historical occasions.

In 1983 Maurice was elected to Marlborough Town Council and served continuously until 2007.

He served twice as mayor, in 1989-1990 and 2000-2001, and one of his proudest moments was in 2000 when he joined mayors from Wiltshire and the world at a service at Salisbury Cathedral.

After retiring he continued his interest in nature, becoming a volunteer for Natural England.