Former St George’s Mayor Norman Roberts has died at the age of 97.

Mr Roberts, who was awarded the OBE for services to his community, passed away on Tuesday in hospital surrounded by his family. Mr Roberts was Mayor of St George’s from 1968 to 1989, two weeks short of 21 years, and a well-respected Scout leader.

As a youngster growing up during the Second World War, he was a member of the Bermuda Volunteer Engineers. When the war ended he worked for his father, Harry Gilbert Roberts, who ran the St George’s Hardware Store.

Mr Roberts went on to serve in the Legislative Council (now the Senate) for eight years.

He was also the chief commissioner of the Scouts and was awarded the Silver Wolf; the highest honour a scout can have.

Premier Michael Dunkley said: “Mr Roberts served Bermuda well for many years, as the Mayor of St. George’s as well as in the Legislative Council (now the Senate). He was a popular St. Georgian and a respected member of the community.

“My colleagues and I extend our condolences to his family and friends.”

This afternoon the Corporation of St George’s also expressed its condolences to Mr Roberts’ family.

A statement said: “Mayor Roberts was the longest serving Mayor of the Corporation of St. George. He served from 1968-1988. During his tenure, Mayor Roberts was instrumental in the creation of the crest and the flag, now used by the Corporation of St George’s”.

Present mayor, Quinell Francis, said: “We are deeply saddened by the news of the passing of the former Worshipful Mayor Roberts. On behalf of the councillors and staff of the Corporation, I extend my heartfelt sympathies to the family.”