FORMER Greenwich Mayor Bill Strong, who served as a councillor for 45 years and was awarded honourary Freedom of the Borough, passed away last Wednesday.

Tributes to Mr Strong, 76, came from current Mayor of Greenwich councillor Terry Malone and Eltham MP Clive Efford who remembered him for his dedication to the borough.

Mr Strong was twice mayor of Greenwich, from 1989 to 1990 and from 1997 to 1998. He was also chairman of several committees including housing, libraries and health.

He represented a wide range of organisations such as Charlton Athletic, Deptford Housing Aid and the Community Health Council during his 45 years as councillor.

Cllr Malone said: "I am very sad to have learned of Bill's sudden death.

"He served as a councillor for such a long time that he was known by many, many people not only Greenwich councillors and staff but by many of the residents in Greenwich. I know he will be sadly missed by many of us."

Mr Efford said: "I served 12 years on Greenwich Council with Bill. He was always very popular with councillors from all parties and was a fine example to everyone in our community."

Members of the public can attend the funeral service at St Lukes Church, Charlton, on February 11 at 11am. There will be refreshments at the town hall afterwards. For more information call, 020 8921 5023.