A former town mayor described as a "unique character with a kind heart" has died aged 81.

John Fullarton held the civic role in Broadstairs and St Peters for three three terms until 2007, when he also stepped down as a Conservative councillor for both the town and county councils.

Born in Ayrshire, Scotland, in 1937, he trained as a mechanical engineer but went to work for the Civil Service, where he remained for more than 30 years, mainly in the Department of Trade and Industry.

He married Sheila in 1964 in Peasedown, near Bath, and the couple had two children, Lisa and Ian, and later a grandson, Joel.

John worked in several places in the UK before settling in Ramsgate in 1978, mainly so he could be close to the sea.

He retired from the civil service in 1989 and went to work for the local council, before being elected to Broadstairs and St Peters Town Council and Kent County Council.

He was in local politics for about 15 years.

He was a keen sailor and had a small yacht, on which his family would spend weekend outings. He was also a keep photographer and enjoyed making films, particularly of local events.

For a few years he and Sheila, who died in 2006, ran the Sunshine Club, a local charity club for elderly people.

After taking a step back from political life in 2007, John sadly suffered a serious stroke in 2008 which affected his speech and mobility.

He died on September 11.

His daughter, Lisa, said: "I think most people would describe him as a unique character. He liked to be the centre of attention - hence why he really enjoyed being the mayor - but was cheeky and certainly enjoyed teasing people.

"He liked to think of himself as a bit of a ladies man. He also had a very kind heart and would be happy to help people out."

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