BANBURY was in mourning this week after strident campaigner and 'People's Champion' George Parish passed away in his early 70s.

The former Banbury Town Mayor and councillor was named an 'inspiration' by colleagues after his death on Saturday, November 26 at a care home in Oxford.

Mr Parish represented Banbury Ruscote on Cherwell District Council for more than 20 years and will be best known for his pivotal role in the Save the Horton campaign.

Reacting to the news this week, fellow councillor Steve Kilsby said: "George was a man whose honesty shone through in a blaze.

"George was always his own man and utterly charming in all his dealings with people, whether they were hostile or - as in most cases - working with and for him.

“He was a lifelong and true socialist who came to politics through his union work. This spirit bred in him his hatred of oppression in all its’ forms and led to his avoidance of dogma and cant. George made Banbury a better place by being the unflappable, positive person he was. He will be sorely missed.”

Mr Parish worked at Kraft Foods for more than 30 years and was the shop steward for the Transport and General Workers Union.

Between 2006 and 2008 he led a three-year battle as chairman of the Save the Horton campaign over proposals to downgrade the Horton General Hospital.

A raft of proposed changes to paediatric services, obstetrics, gynaecology and the Special Care Baby Unit were overturned by the Secretary of State after a full inquiry by the Independent Reconfiguration Panel, which found Banbury was too far distant to risk emergencies being transported the 25 miles to Oxford.

A statement released by the Keep the Horton General campaign on the Saturday said: "He served the community in so many ways over the years, including as councillor and Town Mayor, but it is probably his tireless efforts on behalf of the Horton General Hospital for which he will best be remembered.

"The description "man of the people" fitted him perfectly. It was a privilege to work alongside such a great man. Our thoughts and sympathy are with his family."

Councillor Sean Woodcock, leader of the Banbury Labour group, said: "Everyone in Banbury will be feeling an immense sense of loss at George's passing.

" One of my favourite stories that he told me was how it regularly took him 3 hours to complete his shopping because of all the people who wanted to talk to him.

"He was, quite simply, Mr Horton Hospital. And we will miss him terribly."

Mr Parish, of Glamis Place, is survived by his wife Suzanne and three children.