A town is in mourning after the death of its "kind, caring and thoughtful" council chairman.

Snodland Town Council chairman Peter Misy passed away last month after a short battle with cancer.

The father and husband first became a councillor in 2009, becoming vice chairman shortly after in May 2011.

Four years later he became chairman, and was well known in the town having grown up there as a child, attending Holmesdale School and later Mid Kent College.

Council chief executive Karen Sowten had this to say about the 59-year-old: "Peter was co-opted as a councillor in November 2009. He was vice chairman of the council from May 2011 and became chairman of the council in May 2015.

"Peter had a very in depth knowledge of Snodland having grown up and worked in the Town. The town council will miss him greatly. His knowledge and advice was invaluable.

"He was a helpful, kind, caring and thoughtful man with a great sense of humour. Always willing to help others wherever he could.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Elaine and family at this very sad time.

"The Family have requested no flowers, however donations can be made to Cancer Research courtesy of Clarkes Funerals, High Street, Snodland."

Dozens have expressed condolences to Cllr Misy's family after news of his death was shared via Facebook.

His family have chosen blue as the colour for the Chelsea FC fan's funeral, which takes place next Friday at Vinters Park Crematorium.

More than 200 people are expected to attend.

Cllr Misy also served as treasurer of Snodland Community Centre.

Fellow town councillor Dilys Crook knew Cllr Misy for more than 30 years.

She said: "Peter was very involved in the community and just a lovely man, he'll be greatly missed, especially by the community centre for all his work with us.

"The shock of his death has been horrible."

It is believed the long-serving councillor endured an eight-week with battle with cancer before his passing on March 28.

His death comes 18 months after the passing of fellow Snodland councillor Anne Moloney.