The death of one of Dartford’s longest-serving councillors “marks the end of an era”.

Cllr John Muckle served on the council for 47 years and was first elected to the old Dartford Rural District Council in 1967, representing the Priory Ward.

During his time as a councillor he was involved in committees spanning almost every aspect of Council business but had a particular interest in housing and planning, where he was able to draw from his professional background to make a huge contribution to the Council’s work.

Cllr Muckle was Mayor of the Borough of Dartford in 1973 – the year that the new Dartford District Council was formed.

He had also been a Labour Ward Member for Littlebrook since 1976 and was Leader of the Council from 1998 to 2003.

Current Council Leader Jeremy Kite said: “It’s no exaggeration to say that John’s death marks the end of an era. He was a giant of local politics and a man of total integrity and compassion.

“Only a handful of people have experienced what it means to be leader of a great community like Dartford and over the years I sought his advice on many occasions.

“Outside of politics he was a keen supporter of Dartford Football Club and he and I shared many fun times at Princes Park.

“We will all miss him terribly and it is hard to imagine this town and this Council without him.”

A statement released by the council on Friday August 15 said: “It is with sadness and regret that the Council has learnt of the death of Councillor John Muckle.

"Our thoughts are with Councillor Muckle’s family at this difficult time.”