The Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Cllr Colin Phillimore has paid tribute to Martin Biermann, a former Mayor and borough and parish councillor, who died just before Christmas.

Martin represented the Chineham ward on Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and was first elected to the council in 1994. He held this role for 21 years.

Martin served as Mayor of the borough from 2012 to 2013. Passionate about environmental and transport issues, Martin was the first Mayor to cycle to many of his engagements. The Mayoress, his wife Chansopha, even rode with him to some of them.  Their cycling and driving themselves to mayoral events saved the borough over £30,000 in transport costs, which was used for local green transport initiatives.

Born in Manchester with an English mother and German father, Martin started as an apprentice in an engineering firm and studied at night school to achieve the status of chartered engineer. After some time in the civil service and in other roles, he came to Basingstoke to join an engineering company before setting up his own local printing firm.

Martin and Chansopha, who was born in Cambodia and was midwife at Basingstoke Hospital, both had a strong interest in internationalist and environmental issues, that is shared by their two daughters Fiona and Emma.

Mayor of Basingstoke and Deane Cllr Colin Phillimore said: “I know that, like me, many people across the borough will be deeply saddened by the news of Martin’s death. He was well-known and very active in the community and as a member of a number of local groups. Even after he left the council, he stayed very involved in the life of the borough and sometimes came to meetings to speak passionately on environmental and community issues.

“Being Mayor is a great opportunity to meet many different people and find out more about the strength of the borough’s community spirit. Martin and Chansopha thoroughly enjoyed the role. Martin said in his final speech as Mayor that it had been exhausting, educative, uplifting, challenging, fun and a very special experience.

“Many councillors will remember his warmth, integrity and caring nature. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad time."

Arrangements will be made by the family for a commemoration of Martin’s life, with donations to charities that Martin supported.

The flag at the council offices will fly at half mast on the day of his private funeral.