TRIBUTES have been paid to former Mayor of Chester John Bramall, who has died after a long illness.

Born in Tattenhall on December 27, 1938, John went to agricultural college in Cirencester and worked in marketing for Bibby’s. He took over the family farm in 1973.

He joined Chester City Council in 1981 representing the Waverton ward and was council leader from 1987 to 1990.

In the late 1980s he worked to introduce the first speed limit and pedestrian crossing facilities on the A41 in Waverton and Christleton and for the relocation of the Waverton Chemical Works.

Mr Bramall was Mayor between 1990-91 and stood down in May 1992.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Culture and Recreation Executive Member Richard Short, also a former Lord Mayor of Chester City Council, said: “It was very sad to hear of John’s death.

“He was a steadfast leader and had an easy-going and relaxed approach to his role, with an underlying strength of character.

“His many friends will miss him.”

In 1994 Mr Bramall became ill after a flight to the USA. During his long illness he continued to take a keen interest in life and enjoyed travelling to Europe with the help of friends and family.

Sue Proctor, Deputy Mayor when Mr Bramall was Mayor, said: “He was a true gentleman, kind and considerate, admired and respected and looked up to by all members of the council, irrespective of party affiliation.”

In 1961 he married Elvira, a native of Kassel in Germany and they have two grown up children and four grandchildren.

Mr Bramall attended the King’s School and had taken part in amateur dramatics with the Tattenhall Players. He enjoyed cricket and tennis and loved music, playing the piano and guitar.

Former Lord Mayor Brian Bailey said: “My wife and I have been friends of John and Elvira for a quarter of a century and it was our privilege as Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress to attend John’s 70th birthday celebration in 2008.

“John was a first class representative for the people of Waverton and in his work for the city council was always courteous and thoughtful – possessed of a strong resolve, but never dogmatic or unnecessarily confrontational – a role model for all councillors.”

Mr Bramall’s funeral took place at Chester Crematorium followed by a service of thanksgiving at St Peter’s Church, Waverton on Friday, May 2.