TRIBUTES have been paid to a former mayor and Alderman of Colchester who has died at the age of 86.

Janet Fulford, who served as a Conservative borough councillor for Mile End from 1970 to 1994, passed away at Alderwood Care Home from old age.

Covid-19 was also recorded on her death certificate and she had vascular dementia.

Born in Chingford, Ms Fulford moved to Colchester with her parents and brothers Rod and Bruce in 1955.

At the time she was studying architecture in Walthamstow but settled in Colchester, working for Stanley Bragg Partnership across a distinguished career.

Gazette:

  • Janet during her architecture studies

She worked on many big projects in the town, including the creation of Hippodrome nightclub, in High Street.

After 24 years on the council, Miss Fulford, who never married, was appointed an Honorary Alderman of Colchester and also served as mayor of Colchester between 1984 and 1985.

She was always heavily involved in the town’s community and served as a director of Colchester Archaeological Trust, a governor at St Mary’s School and was a town guide.

Miss Fulford moved to a care home two years ago after seriously injuring her back.

Gazette:

  • Janet Fuford was an Honorary Alderman of Colchester

Brother Rod said: “She was extremely independent minded. She was energetic and loved adventurous holidays.

“She loved Colchester and talking to people about the town’s history. She also loved a party.

"She will be much missed by all her family.”

Colchester High Steward Sir Bob Russell served on the council with Ms Fulford.

He said: “Janet was a bubbly personality, with a lovely sense of humour. She was devoted to Mile End. She had a passion for Colchester, its heritage, its traditions.

“For me, her lasting legacy is a building at the top of Trinity Street where in 1977 she was the architect who transformed it into a public house, known as The Cups.

“No longer a pub, but still prominent on the wall at first floor is the fabulous sign of three cups which once hung from The Cups Hotel in High Street. The sign was saved when the hotel was demolished several years before.

"Janet knew where the magnificent sign was stored, and was instrumental in the sign being restored to public view in the town centre – where it remains to the present day.”

Gazette:

  • Janet loved a party according to her family

Colchester Mayor Robert Davison added: “She was someone who served the people of her ward in Mile End and the whole borough with passion and determination for many years following her election to the council in 1970.

“She was Mayor in 1984/1985 with the late Cllr Rod Pawsey as her Escort.

“She was awarded the honorary title of Alderman recognising her eminent and long service – a testament to her dedication.

"She continued her active interest offering advice and guidance by attending civic and public council meetings.

“Until recently, as a town guide, she also enlightened visitors to the town`s history.

"Her long career as a well-respected architect, with the Stanley Bragg partnership, has left her legacy around the borough.

“She will be sorely missed by everyone who knew her. On behalf of everyone at the council I want to pass our deepest condolences to her family and friends at this difficult time.”

A private burial is taking place at Oakfield Wood in Wrabness, but a party celebrating Miss Fulford's life will be planned once Covid restrictions allow.