Tributes have flooded in following the death of councillor Roy Nicholas who served as a member of Minchinhampton Parish council for half a century.

Cllr Nicholas died at the age of 82 years, in Gloucestershire Royal Hospital on January 1, and is survived by his son and daughter.

“You have to recognise that he was absolutely dedicated to public service and his contribution to the community cannot be dismissed. It is unlikely to be repeated in a hurry,” said cllr Nick Hurst, chairman of Minchinhampton PC.

Cllr Nicholas, who also served on both the Stroud District and Gloucestershire County councils and on countless charities, was chairman at Minchinhampton council for 18 years after joining in the late 1960s. At the time of his passing he was vice-chairman.

After his passing flags were flown at half-mast at Ebley Mill, home to Stroud District Council, where Cllr Nicholas was chair from 1983 to 1987.

Stroud District councillor said that cllr Nicholas would be greatly missed.

"There will never be the likes of Roy again," cllr Marjoran said. "He called a spade a spade and he ruled the Council with rod of iron but he was fair.

"He was dedicated to our local authority and over the years we became friends - he will be greatly missed as a character."

Funeral details will be released in due course.

  • If you would like to pay tribute to Councillor Nicholas please email your thoughts to sarah.watson@newsquest.co.uk