TRIBUTES have poured in for a much loved Potters Bar councillor who died this weekend, after a long illness. Councillor Martin Heywood, who represented the Oakmere ward and was Hertsmere mayor in 2006/07, died on Saturday

TRIBUTES have poured in for a much loved Potters Bar councillor who died this weekend, after a long illness.

Councillor Martin Heywood, who represented the Oakmere ward and was Hertsmere mayor in 2006/07, died on Saturday age 56. He had been in hospital since March, suffering from a number of "serious health complaints", according to his wife, Jean.

Those who knew cllr Heywood this week lined up to pay their respects to a man who, until he fell ill, played a large part in many aspects of the community.

John Godfrey, from Potters Bar in Focus, said: "I worked with Martin on Potters Bar in Focus. He came to the meetings whenever he could.

"He was very supportive of the things we've tried to do in town, and he'll be much missed by everyone."

At the time of his death, Cllr Heywood was also president of the Potters Bar and District Scout Groups.

District scout commissioner Charles Dace said: "Despite being ill, Martin was so cheerful all the time. He always had a smile for everyone. It's very sad.