Percy Miles, the only person to have been mayor of Royal Wootton Bassett three times, has died at the age of 82.

He was a town councillor for many years and was mayor in 1986, 2001 and 2006.

As the former, long-serving chairman of the Memorial Hall committee, he strove tirelessly to maintain and improve the town’s main public hall.

He was mayor in 2001 when Royal Wootton Bassett’s official twinning with Blain was formalised at ceremonies and celebrations locally, a year after the initial formalities in Blain.

As a staunch member of the Royal British Legion, and Poppy Appeal Organiser for many years, he instigated a gathering of residents at the War Memorial, at the start of the Repatriations.

Mayor Linda Frost said: “He was a most distinguished and respected man who dedicated tirelessly to help those in need, exemplified in 2006 in raising funds for his chosen charity, Make a Wish Foundation.”

Mr Miles was born at Broad Town in 1931, and moved to Royal Wootton Bassett when he was six.

After leaving the National School (now the Civic Centre), Percy worked for the Gas Board.

He enlisted in the Royal Ordnace Corps in 1949 and attained the rank of company Sgt Major before he returned to civilian life in 1971.

He worked for the old Swindon Council and briefly owned an off-licence. He served for over a decade as Homelessness Officer for Thamesdown Borough Council, and retired at 65.

He and his wife Sally, who met when they were serving in the Army, have a son, two daughters, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

His funeral is next Tuesday, March 11, at Kingsdown Crematorium at 10.30am. Memorial donations will be appreciated for the Poppy Appeal.

http://www.gazetteandherald.co.uk/archive/2014/03/05/11053238.Percy_MILES/