TRIBUTES have flooded in for Tandridge community stalwart Margaret McNaughton.
Mrs McNaughton, who died last Wednesday aged 82, was appointed MBE in 1981 for her contribution to the local community and youth work.
She was also a governor of Oxted School in Bluehouse Lane for 42 years, half of that time as chairman of governors.
Other key roles included 19 years as a Tandridge councillor – holding the post of chairman of Tandridge District Council from 1981-2 – as well as serving with the Rotary movement and working for the district's recreation operators Tandridge Trust.
A widow, she leaves four children and three grandchildren.
When Mrs McNaughton, of Church Lane, Oxted, stood down as chairman of governors three years ago, she was given a standing ovation by past and present parents and staff.
Speaking at the time, she told the Mirror: "It has been an enormous pleasure and great privilege.
"There is something quite special about Oxted School.
"It's quite incredible how many people have a connection with it – from Bletchingley, Hurst Green, Godstone and Lingfield."
Her only low point, recalled Mrs McNaughton, was the "dreadful" fire of 1998. She said: "It was a very dramatic and traumatic time but everyone magically pulled together."
A tribute from Oxted School said: "We were very sorry to hear of the death of Margaret McNaughton who gave so much of her time and energy to the school.
"She worked tirelessly for us all, the governing body, the students, staff and parents and for the wider community. We will all miss her."
Only this July her selfless work for local people was acclaimed when Oxted and Limpsfield Rotary Club made her a Paul Harris Fellow – the highest award in the Rotary movement.
She served as a councillor for Oxted North and Tandridge Ward between 1973 and 1992.
The council's chief executive Louise Round paid tribute to a "valued and hardworking member of the community".
Mrs McNaughton was also a former chairman of recreation operators the Tandridge Trust.
Marc Symons, the trust's managing director, said: "She was a valued supporter and friend, and will be greatly missed."
Mike Moss, secretary of Oxted and Limpsfield Rotary Club, had known Mrs McNaughton for almost 50 years.
He said: "She did an enormous amount for Oxted and beyond. It's such a shame she has died."
A memorial service will be held on September 26 at 2pm in St Mary's Church, Oxted.
