The former Mayor of Midsomer Norton has thanked all the scores of local people who have sent their condolences following the sudden death of her husband Richard Robertson.

Cllr Lynda Robertson said she and her sons have been very touched that over 70 people had sent messages and cards to the family following the death of her husband, who had also served on Midsomer Norton Town Council. Mr Robertson, who was 83, died suddenly on May 16 at his home.

She told Nub News : " We as a family have been so touched by all the cards and messages from those who knew Richard. They have meant so much to us, we want to thank all of those who have been in touch."

Her husband, who was regularly seen out and about on the cycle path collecting rubbish around their home in Welton, was known for his sense of humour and for always wearing odd coloured socks. He also played in a band, who have told the family he will be greatly missed.

Lynda added that as well as being really comforted and touched by the messages from people who knew Richard, that they wanted to thank the emergency services who tried to save his life.

She told Nub News: " Within ten minutes of calling for help after he collapsed there were three ambulances there, trying to help. Everyone was so caring and courteous and they tried their absolute best. "

He was then ambulanced to Southmead Hospital where again the family would like to thank the medical team. "Staff tried so hard to help and they were absolutely incredible, people were so considerate of our feelings as family too, it was very caring." Mr Robertson had been awaiting a date for an operation for heart stents, it is believed he had sudden aneurysm.

Richard Robertson was elected to Midsomer Norton's first Town Council in May 2011. The family are not having a funeral, but a private cremation, and plan on having a ceremony for the celebration of his life at a later date.