TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Milford Haven mayor, and "fierce advocate of women's rights", following her death aged 86.

Molly Pritchard was town mayor between 2001 and 2002, and also served on several committees in addition to her role as a town councillor.

A well-known local figure, Mrs Pritchard moved to Milford Haven with her husband, the late John Pritchard, in 1988.

Following a serious car accident two years earlier, she moved to Totnes, Devon, in 2004.

She passed away peacefully in the early hours of October 1.

Mrs Pritchard was also an active Labour party member, and friend Tamsin Dunwoody described her as a "vivacious, talkative, lovely lady".

"Molly was the perennially elegant, slightly scatty, matronly grey-bunned mayor of Milford Haven, and a fierce advocate of women's rights," she said.

"A midwife in her career, she was always full of funny tales.

"Her Welsh pronunciation was shocking but always made with the most charming smile and giggle.

"May her soul rest in peace and her spirit continue to wreak havoc."

Labour party member Terry Mills added: "Molly was an active and committed member of the Labour Party, and a lovely person who was always more interested in people than pure politics.

"She stood at a county council election and on the day of the election she spoke to an elderly constituent who was not well enough to vote.

"She went shopping for the lady and made sure that she was safe, comfortable, had a warm drink and food.

"Many other politicians would have moved to the next door.

"She was a kind, generous person who cared for her community."

Cllr William Elliott, current mayor of Milford Haven, said he was saddened to hear of her death.

"It is another very sad day for Milford Haven, as we lose the second former mayor in recent weeks.

"I remember her from my days as a Sea Cadet and the support she gave to the town.

"My thoughts are with her family at this time."

Town clerk Moyra Galliford said Mrs Pritchard "was a very hard working mayor who loved Milford Haven".

Mrs Pritchard's funeral will take place on October 21, at 2pm, at Torquay Crematorium, Devon.

Family flowers only. Donations to Rowcroft Hospice c/o K J Lack funeral directors 153 St Marychurch Road, Plainmoor, Torquay TQ13HW, telephone 01803 313200.