TRIBUTES have been paid to one of West Devon Borough Council's 'true champions' and former Mayor of West Devon, Councillor Donald Horn, who died suddenly from a heart attack on Monday, March 2, aged 77.

Cllr Horn, who lived in Lifton, was first elected on May 3, 2007 as ward member for Thrushel, acting as Mayor of West Devon from May 2011 to May 2012. He sat on a number of committees, including planning and licensing, standards, and overview and scrutiny.

Cllr Philip Sanders, leader of West Devon Borough Council, said: 'With the death of Cllr Donald Horn the councillors and officers have lost a friend and a colleague, and the electorate a true champion.

'Donald always had time for everyone and could always see the positives in every situation. He was a quiet and gentle man who worked tirelessly for his electorate. He was well known for his championship of the rural economy and way of life.

'We will all miss him and our thoughts are with his wife Mary and the family.'

A family man and farmer by profession, Donald was passionate about the agricultural sector and worked hard to encourage controlled development across the borough. He was also committed to seeing the provision of housing for young people in the rural area.

Cllr Horn was a forward-thinking farmer and was eager to diversify when he formed the business, Markstone Granite, with his son Jonathan. He was also a keen gardener and won many prizes at local competitions, including in Lifton and Stowford.

Cllr Terry Pearce said: 'The sudden death of Cllr Donald Horn has come as a dreadful shock to us all.

'West Devon has lost a great champion of business who continually fought hard for the local economy, including the farming sector. 

'Together with my wife June, I will never forget the tremendous support given to us by Donald and his wife Mary in my mayoral year. We have lost a very genuine friend in his passing.

'Our thoughts are with Mary and family at this sad time.'

Cllr John Sheldon added: 'Donald, Don, was a friend who welcomed all who came into contact with him. Without doubt he was well respected by his colleagues and his views on rural life and farming were well known.

'A true gentleman and someone who will be sorely missed, as I am sure many will picture him at council and also hear his voice for a very long time to come.'

He leaves a widow, Mary, and three sons.