Tributes are being paid to a former Isle of Wight councillor and East Cowes mayor, who has died aged 79.

Margaret Webster served a "long and valued period of public service" on the Island, spanning 25 years. 

Her family say her death "leaves a hole that cannot be filled".

Born in Chiswick in 1944, at the end of World War II, Margaret was the second of four children.

She studied catering at Reading College and went on to work in the industry in London and at Southampton University.

In 1964, when her parents became licensees of The Pier View, Cowes, Margaret met her future husband of 50 years, John Charles Webster.

John owned the Fountain Hotel, just across the road.

They married in September 1967 and, up until 1976, ran the Victoria Tavern, East Cowes together.

Margaret went on to teach catering at the Isle of Wight College and also worked at BHC Sports Club, East Cowes.

Hundreds of couples had their wedding receptions at the club, including Margaret and John's two daughters.

For many years, Margaret was also secretary of Medina Marching Band and was a familiar sight at carnivals - walking behind the band to make sure everyone was safe.

Although not a 'true Caulkhead’, her family said her love for the community always shone through. This was apparent when East Cowes Town Council was established in 1998 and Margaret became a town councillor.

After a spell as deputy mayor, she became mayor in 2000 — a role which she held until 2003, and again in 2015.

During her time as a town councillor, she helped to establish play parks at Jubilee Recreation Ground and the Esplanade, and the skate park at Victoria Grove. She was also an inaugural member of the East Cowes Community Partnership.

As a Conservative Isle of Wight councillor for East Cowes, Margaret served two terms — from 2005 to 2009 and 2009 to 2013.

Away from politics, her family said she loved spending time with her grandchildren and boasting about their achievements.

John passed away in June 2017 and Margaret would spend many hours reminiscing about the cruises they enjoyed together.

Margaret leaves behind two daughters and four grandchildren.

Her funeral will be held at the Isle of Wight Crematorium on Friday, February 9 at 1.30pm.