TRIBUTES have been paid to Beatrice Dobie after the long-serving Thame councillor died yesterday.

In a statement on its website Thame Town Council confirmed Ms Dobie's death followed a fall at her home.

It added: "The council expresses its sincere condolences to her family and friends at this very difficult time."

Ms Dobie joined the town council in 1987 and was elected deputy mayor in 2003.

She was recognised for her contribution to Thame in 2014 when she was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Town Award. Ms Dobie stood down as a town councillor in 2011 after 24 years of service.

Outside of politics, she had also taught infants in High Wycombe and Blackbird Leys, Oxford.

Thame Mayor Nichola Dixon said: "Beatrice was a commanding and passionate woman whose dedication to the town continued long after she stood down as a councillor.

"This is indeed sad news for the council and for all those who have come to know Beatrice over the many years she has lived in the town."