HUNDREDS have paid tribute to a 'much-loved' husband, dad and grandad who was a key part of the Lymm community.

Neville Woodyatt, husband of Lymm South borough councillor Sheila, died at his home following heart failure on May 18, aged 87.

The pair were married for 58 years after meeting in May 1957 at the official opening of the former Lymm Grammar School's swimming pool.

Family described Neville, who had four children and seven grandchildren, as a 'much-loved' husband, dad and grandad.

His funeral took place at St Peter's Church, on Oughtrington Lane, on June 5.

Neville completed two years national service in the RAF before he was employed as an engineer at Metro, ICI and Astra Zeneca.

He served as a Lymm parish councillor for 28 years and was involved in a number of community initiatives.

Sheila thanked her Town Hall colleagues for their support at Monday's full council meeting.

She said: "I would like to say 'thank you very much' to all of you who sent messages of support and sympathy, both members and officers.

"I received more than 500 cards, lots of e-mails and 300 people attended the funeral, which I think is amazing.

"I would like to thank the mayor in particular for arranging a minute's silence prior to the last council meeting – I found it very touching.

"I know Neville would have been very pleased, you all gave him a fantastic send off.

"I am immensely proud of my children and grandchildren."