VILLAGERS in Frampton have been shocked and saddened by the sudden death of leading parish councillor Nigel Green.

Mr Green, 61, collapsed in Dorchester on Thursday after leaving a district council planning meeting and later died at Dorset County Hospital.

Tributes have been pouring in for Mr Green, who has been chairman of Frampton Parish Council for the past two years and was an active councillor for 12 years.

Colin Pook, clerk to the parish

council, said that Mr Green was a real stalwart of village life.

He said: "He's always been a very active councillor. Everyone knew him and I think you could look on him as one of the village characters."

Mr Pook said Mr Green was also well-known in the village for his involvement in the annual village pantomime.

Mr Green and his wife, Renee, have four sons and moved to Frampton in 1976 to manage Southover Farm.

Mr Green became a councillor in 1984 and served until 1994. He joined the parish council again five years later and was elected chairman.

Parish councillor Peter Cox said Mr Green was a dedicated member of the parish council.

He said: "Everyone knew him and we all feel a great loss."

Frampton vicar the Reverend Ken Scott said Mr Green was a much loved and valued member of the

community. He said: "He contributed a lot to the life of the village."

Mr Green's funeral service is being held at St Mary's Church in Frampton on Friday, November 17, at noon.