TRIBUTES have been been paid to a former Tory councillor remembered as a "community champion" who stood up for Hadleigh and work tirelessly for her residents.

Enid Isaacs passed away aged 96 on Monday and is fondly remembered for being Castle Point councillor for the Victoria ward between 1998 and 2012.

Despite being 83-years-old, she even put herself forward for another term in the 2012 elections but was ultimately unsuccessful.

The Castle Point Conservatives have said they are “deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former councillor and Hadleigh Community Champion Enid Isaacs”.

“Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time," a spokesman added.

Jill Reeves, Essex County councillor for Hadleigh and friend of Enid Issacs for many years said she will be remembered as a straight-talking champion for Hadleigh and a loyal Conservative.

She said: “Enid was never afraid to say it like it was and would always stand-up for Hadleigh and the Conservative values she held dear.

“She viewed being a councillor as a great duty and worked incredibly hard for her residents.

“She helped many people in Hadleigh with individual problems over her years as a councillor and it was a pleasure to work with her on issues affecting our town.

“She will be sorely missed by all who knew her and fondly remembered by all those residents she helped”.

Former Castle Point Council leader and Essex County Tory councillor for South Benfleet, Andrew Sheldon added: “It was a pleasure to serve with Enid on the Council.

“She was a voice of wisdom in every meeting and although she could be fierce in defence of her residents, she was incredibly kind and had time for everyone.

“She was greatly respected by colleagues and political opponents alike in the council chamber and was always on hand to give sage advice with a reassuring smile to anyone who needed her help.

“Hadleigh is a better town for her many years of hard work and service.”