TRIBUTES have been paid this week to a former mayor described as "the gentle giant" of Croydon politics.
Pat Hecks died on Saturday after being ill for some months. He was 78.
Born in Stone, Staffordshire, he was educated at Repton School before moving south to take up a job as a broker in the City.
He later became an NHS contracts manager.
Mr Hecks was first elected to Croydon Council in 1982, representing Croham ward as a Conservative.
He held the seat until his retirement from in 1998, four years after Labour took control of the council.
His widow, Gillian, said this week: "Being in opposition never really agreed with him."
Mr Hecks was mayor in 1993-94, the last Tory to hold the post before the Labour victory.
During his time on the council he chaired the social services committee and served as a governor of Croydon College and Purley Oaks Primary School.
Outside politics he was a keen member of Rotary and a former president of the Croydon Jubilee club. He was also a train buff and made a detailed study of railway history.
Mrs Hecks said one of his railway highlights was learning to drive a steam train with fellow Tory councillor and railway enthusiast Dudley Mead
Mr Hecks lived in Penwortham Road, Sanderstead, before moving to Warlingham four years ago, where he continued his interest in politics by becoming secretary of Warlingham East Conservatives.
Former council leader Lord Bowness, who also represented Croham ward, said: "Pat had a distinguished career in local government.
"He was a great friend to everybody and it would have been very difficult for me to carry on the obligations of being council leader without his support."
Current council leader Mike Fisher said: "He was great supporter of the borough and was somebody that everybody could talk to."
Former council chief executive David Wechsler said: "He was a gentle giant with an impish sense of humour. He was unfailingly patient and considerate.
"This light touch also disguised a keen intellect and real dedication to public service."
And Labour councillor Toni Letts added: "A consummate English gentleman, he was always the first person to welcome newly-elected members of the council, putting them at their ease regardless of which party they represented."
Mr Hecks had two daughters, Sarah and Caroline.
His funeral will be private but it is intended a memorial service will be held at Croydon Minster later.
