A FORMER Mayor of Andover and 'loyal' town councillor has sadly died.

Cllr Barbara Long, independent councillor for Andover St Mary’s and twice mayor of the town, died on Saturday, May 21 after battling cancer.

Her husband Nigel also serves as a town councillor.

In a statement this afternoon (May 23), Cllr Luigi Gregori on behalf of North West Hampshire Liberal Democrats, of which Barbara was a member, said: "It is with great sadness that I have to announce the death of Councillor Barbara Long, former Mayor and Chair of Andover Town Council.

"Barbara was a hard working local councillor and campaigner who did much to improve the lot of Andover residents over the years, especially through her work with charities and community groups.

"Our thoughts go out to Nigel and Becky and other members of her family."

Borough councillor for the St Mary's ward, Cllr Iris Andersen, said it was "devastating news", adding: "I knew Barbara for many years, back when she was a school teacher, but since becoming a councillor for the past 11 years we have worked together on various things.

"She worked for the town, there wasn't anything she wouldn't do for anybody. The town has lost a hardworking, loyal, good community councillor."

Current Mayor of Andover, Cllr David Coole, added: "I and everyone I have spoken to, are deeply saddened to hear of Barbara's passing and our thoughts are with her husband and family at this difficult time.

"Barbara battled so long and hard against her cancer and it is hard to believe her fight is over. No-one will dispute she was a force to be reckoned with and that her passion, determination and commitment towards Andover and the Town Council was unrivalled.

"She was a true inspiration for all who knew her. Barbara was twice elected as Town Mayor and did this with distinction, fairness and compassion.

"Although Barbara is no longer with us, she will live on in our memories and I for one will always be grateful for having the privilege of knowing her."

The Advertiser will pay tribute to Barbara Long with a full obituary in this week's edition. 

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