Long-serving Corsham Town councillor Christopher Lynch has died aged 56.

Mr Lynch from Box Hill, Corsham, was on Corsham Town Council for 14 years representing the Pickwick ward on behalf of the Labour party.

During that time he also served two terms as vice-chair of the council and was a member of many of the town’s committees.

He left Corsham Town Council in 2013 but had recently become a councillor for Box Parish Council.

He was born in Box, attended The Corsham School, and lived in the area all his life. He was a trustee and governor of the school’s Academy Group for eight years and was closely involved with its Young Enterprise scheme.

Mr Lynch was married to Philippa, who was Chair of Governors at The Corsham School, and cared for her following her multiple sclerosis diagnosis until she died, aged 48, in October 2013.

He had a varied career. At the age of 19 he began working for the Ministry of Defence as a Radiological Protection supervisor and he stayed with the MoD for more than 16 years.

He then went on to work at Cadbury as a maintenance planner, where he oversaw demolition projects and supervised contractors and also worked there for just over 16 years.

Mr Lynch worked for Rolls-Royce for a short time as an engine accessory asset controller and was running a computer support business when he died.

Following the news of his death a minute’s silence was held at the Corsham Town Council meeting.

Chair Ruth Hopkinson said: “Chris was a lovely, community-minded gentle man. He cared for his wife, Philippa without ever complaining, whilst still working and carrying out his civic duties. A true gentleman.

“He will be sorely missed by all of those who knew him, not least his fellow councillors.”

Mr Lynch, who is survived by four children and two grandchildren, died on Saturday, February 8. His funeral takes place today (19) at 10.30am at St Patrick’s Church, Corsham, followed by his burial at Box Cemetery.