Helston has been left "deeply saddened" by the loss of one of its finest members of the community.

Fred Angove, who dedicated his life to supporting the work and people of the town, has died, leaving the town in mourning.

Helston Town Council released a statement on its website this morning saying: "Members and staff of Helston Town Council were deeply saddened this morning to hear the news that Fred Angove has passed away.

"Fred has been a macebearer since 1989 and a stalwart of numerous local organisations.

"Our thoughts go out to his family and friends and he will be greatly missed."

Helston mayor John Martin described it as a "very sad day for our town."

He said: "Fred Angove's contribution to the life of the town and our town council will long be remembered.

"He was a long standing macebearer and had always been a shoulder to lean on during my time as mayor.

"His dedication and support for the elderly of this town is immeasurable."

Mr Martin said Mr Angove had been upset in November when he was not able to take his place in the procession on Remembrance Day as usual.

"Our love and thoughts go to this family and his friends, in particular his wife Edna.

"Fred was a lovely man. Our memories of his character and his hard work for Helston town will be with us for eternity," he added.

In 2014 Mr Angove was presented with a town plaque for his long service with the council.

In addition to his civic role as macebearer for 30 years, Mr Angove was a strong supporter of Helston Christmas Lights Committee and could always be seen with his collecting bucket taking donations every lights switch on.

He was also heavily involved in Helston Age Concern and a lifetime supporter of Helston Town Band, of which he was made an honorary life member earlier this year.

He was the band's longest-serving committee member, having joined as a teenager, following the lead of his father, and while he never played he was a collector for more than 60 years. Not only could he be seen swinging his collection bucket accompanying the dances on Flora Day, but his support was all year round, at every band event and in the street at Christmas.

Band chairman Ben Curnow said: "Everyone associated with the Helston Town Band family is devastated at the news of Fred’s passing. He was a good friend to us all and we will miss him very much.

"Fred was always willing to help with absolutely anything!

"In addition to his work with many other groups, Fred was devoted to Helston Town Band. When the band play at their annual Christmas Concert, at Helston Central Methodist Church this coming Saturday, he will be very much in our thoughts."

Mr Angove loved singing and was a member of a number of male voice choirs locally, including St Stythians Male Choir and the Singing Seagulls.

He was also involved in supporting many of the town's sports clubs.

His cheeky smile was known throughout the town and he would always stop to chat with those he knew.