The Mayor Councillor Steve Eva has paid tribute to Dame Vera Lynn who passed away yesterday aged 103.

Councillor Eva said:

"As an ex-serviceman, I am very sad to hear of the death of Dame Vera Lynn who held a special place in the hearts of all servicemen, past and present, young and old.

"I had the privilege to meet Dame Vera in 1977 whilst serving in the Royal Navy and her songs were as poignant now as they were during the 1940s.

"May the Forces' Sweetheart rest in peace."

Dame Vera Lynn, whose songs defined World War Two, passed away around her close relatives on Thursday morning.