A 'TRUE gentlemen' of Droitwich Spa has died.

Honorary freeman Harry Hipkiss, 78, died of a heart attack on April 9. He was well-known and much-loved in Droitwich for his work as a town councillor as well as for having an active role in the Salvation Army and being a governor for Westlands First School amongst many other kind-hearted roles he took on.

Harry moved to Droitwich in 1968 to work at BRS Road Linings and later at Van Johns, before retiring. He was married to Mary Gwendoline and together they had four children. She died just twelve days after Harry's 65th birthday.

Harry was very proud of his ten grandchildren and six great grandchildren and often said what a fantastic family he had. He represented the Labour Party on the town council between 1996-2003.

Town councillor John Cook (Lab-West) who was a close friend of Harry's said it was a sorrowful time for his family, friends and the town as a whole.

He said: "Harry was a true and loving friend. He was an inspiration to all the people of Droitwich. Harry really enjoyed being an honorary freeman. He will be missed by many people in the town, especially fellow members of the Salvation Army."