A five-time mayor of Elstree & Borehamwood has died at the age of 87.

Bert Coe passed away peacefully on Monday February 8, the Hertsmere Labour Party has announced.

Mr Coe was a serving member of Elstree & Borehamwood Town Council for 36 years, working across both Cowley Hill and Brookmeadow wards.

He was town mayor five times, most recently in 2006, first serving as mayor in the 1970s. During his time as town councillor, he worked closely with colleague Cllr Eileen Stanley.

In 2006, Ms Stanley said of her colleague: "Bert has been a tremendous asset to the town council over many years. He is the most senior member of the council and the most experienced.

"His strong point is understanding the financial side of what the town council does and he is also a very good chairman.

"I would also say that if it hadn't been for Bert, I don't think we would have had such a lovely hall Fairway Hall (home of Elstree & Borehamwood Town Council). He was determined we should have a place of our own."

Mr Coe was a career civil servant at the old Department of Health and Social Security and a life-long supporter of Norwich City. In his spare time he could be found on his allotment.

Following his death, Elstree & Borehamwood Town Council Labour group leader, Cllr Richard Butler, said of Mr Coe: "He was a true gentleman and great campaigner. It’s been a huge privilege to follow in his footsteps."