A HEARTFELT tribute has been paid to the Thurrock borough's first-ever mayor who was an "important figure" in the area for more than five decades.

Councillor Kairen Raper, mayor of Thurrock,  who sadly passed away on Tuesday, October 15.

She said: "It is with great sadness that I learnt of Margaret Jones’ passing.

"For more than five decades Margaret has been an important figure in public life in the borough.

"She was the first Mayor of Thurrock in 1974.

"Today the flag at the Civic Offices is flying at half-mast as we mourn her loss.

"Margaret had a real passion for helping young people find their place in the world.

"She worked as a teacher, was Thurrock Council's first Cabinet Member for Education, and served as President of Thurrock Scouts until last year.

"She will be sorely missed, but fondly remembered by so many people she helped across more than 50 years in political and public life in Thurrock."