ROSS-on-Wye is mourning the loss of one of its most devoted public servants following the death of former Mayor and long-serving Councillor Phillip Cutter.

Mr Cutter, who passed away on Monday, served the town for decades as both a Town and County Councillor and held the office of Mayor of Ross-on-Wye three times.

He was widely respected for his commitment to the community and his passion for improving local life.

Ross Town Council led the tributes, saying in a statement: “Ross-on-Wye Town Council are saddened to hear the news of Phillip Cutter’s passing. Phil was a Town Councillor for many years with Ross Town Council and Mayor from 1988–89, 2002–03 and 2006–07, as well as a County Councillor. We send our condolences to Phil’s family and friends.”

Cllr Ed O’Driscoll said:“ I’m very sad to learn Phil Cutter died on Monday. He was a town and county councillor for many years and Mayor on several occasions. I got to know him really well through the Betzdorf Twinning Association over the past 10 years or so … he was a true servant of Ross and will be deeply missed.”

South Herefordshire MP Jesse Norman also paid tribute, describing Mr Cutter as: “A lovely, funny, positive and caring man … and a committed and effective councillor.”

Local business owner Helen Hunter said Mr Cutter was always supportive of the community: “Oh what extremely sad news and a shock. Phil was such a lovely man and always had Ross at the forefront of everything he did.

He supported local businesses, especially my own and will be greatly missed by all. Sending our deepest condolences to his wonderful family.”

Mr Cutter’s legacy is one of service, spirit and a deep-rooted love for Ross-on-Wye.