A FORMER Winsford mayor and RAF pilot who oversaw the town’s expansion in the 1960s has died, aged 79.

Donald Atherton was born in Wharton on April 17 1933, the son of Minnie and Peter Smith.

After the Second World War, Mr Atherton was stationed overseas in Canada, America and Iceland, flying Gloster Meteor fighter jets.

He married Beryl Derricott in September 1956 and became a member of the Liberal Party.

In 1958 he was voted chairman of the Winsford and District Young Liberal Association.

A year later he became public relations officer for Nantwich division, and was responsible in part for the development of the town of Winsford in the 1960s.

He was elected the youngest mayor of Winsford in 1965 and became a sales manager dealing in stocks and shares until retiring at 60.

Mr Atherton passed away peacefully at home with his wife and daughters in Southwell, Nottinghamshire on May 13.

He is survived by daughters Tracy Jane Atherton and Lisa Thorburn, grandchildren Sophie and Thomas Thorburn, and Son-in-law Craig Thorburn.

Daughter, Tracey Jane, described Donald as “a wonderful husband, father and grandfather.”

His funeral will take place at Christ Church, Wharton Cheshire on May 28 at midday.

A celebration of Mr Atherton’s life will take place at Great Budworth Village Hall, Great Budworth after the funeral.

Family request flowers and donations to Marie Curie, Macmillan or Beaumond House Community Hospice.