MUCH-loved former Devizes mayor Pete Smith is fighting for his life in hospital after collapsing at the wheel of his Wiltshire Council van close to St James' Church, Devizes, yesterday morning.

Today fellow members of the Devizes Guardians and other town councillors all sent their support to Mr Smith and his family.

Devizes Mayor Jane Burton said: "I was very shocked and upset to hear of Councillor Pete Smiths accident.

"I've known Pete since he came to Devizes in the 60s and have worked with him,since 2003 when we were the first two Devizes Guardians to be elected to Devizes Town Council. My thoughts are with him and his family,and he's in my prayers for a speedy and safe recovery."

Guardian leader Nigel Carter said: "Pete is a fantastic man. Everyone involved with the town council is thinking about him and his family."

Mr Smith, who has twice been mayor and also stood in after John Leighton died while in office, is also a member of the fundraising group Major Wrecks.

Coun Smith, 67, has been a town councillor as a member of Devizes Guardians since 2003. He and his wife Sonia have four children, three boys and a girl, and six grandchildren.

The accident yesterday morning at 10.40am and the road was closed from the Esso garage to Kwik Fit while Mr Smith was given medical attention before being taken to hospital and the road was cleared.

It is understood Mr Smith suffered a heart attack at the wheel and later underwent surgery. He is now in intensive care.