Flags flew at half-mast on council buildings to mark the funeral of one of Swale's "best mayors."

Lesley Ingham's funeral took place at The Garden of England crematorium at Bobbing near Sittingbourne on Friday.

The service was conducted by Annie Love.

Friend Iain Maxstead read the eulogy. He said: "We paid tribute to the life of our friend Lesley, a friend for over 25 years taken aged just 66.

"She served the NHS as a nurse for over 35 years and as a councillor and mayor for 11 years. But her greatest pride was her daughter Ashlee and grandchildren Lottie and Lily."

Lesley, who lived in Eastchurch on the Isle of Sheppey, died on June 3.

She had been mayor of Swale between 2016 and 2017 and served Islanders on Swale council representing Sheppey East, which covers her village, Warden, Leysdown and Harty, for 11 years from 2007 to 2018.

She also chaired the council's licensing committee for several years.

Conservative colleague Cllr James Hunt of The Meads, Sittingbourne, said: “Lesley was the best mayor we have had while I have been a member. That year was certainly the most fun we have had at full council meetings."

Swale's deputy mayor Cllr Simon Clark attended the service. A council spokesman said: "Council buildings were flying our flags at half-mast."

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