Colleagues have paid tribute to a 'wonderful' Amersham councillor who passed away suddenly aged 76.

Liberal Democrat district councillor Davida Allen, who served the Amersham Town ward and lived in Stanley Hill, passed away unexpectedly. 

Chiltern District Council Leader, Cllr Isobel Darby, said: "Her community spirit and commitment were second to none. We have lost a great councillor, a friend and a wonderful character.

"Davida's sharp intellect and instinct, her compassion and energy will be greatly missed. I am not alone in being terribly saddened, and my thoughts are with her close family and friends at this time."

Cllr Allen, a mother of four, was first elected in 1999 and served until she lost her seat in the 2011 elections.

The dedicated campaigner was re-elected in May this year and had been actively representing her ward until her death.

Cllr Allen was born and raised in the Penn and Holmer Green area and went to Wycombe High School, where she developed an interest in sciences. 

She went on to become an organic research chemist at The Radiochemcial Centre (later to become GE Healthcare).

A well-known figure around Amersham having taught in the area, Cllr Allen could usually be seen cycling around the town on her bicycle.

Cllr Peter Jones, Leader of the Liberal Democrats on the Council, said: "We were so delighted when Davida re-won her seat this year, not just members of the LibDems but politicians across the board welcomed her back.

"That was the nature of the woman, she was above politics and had a determination to fight for the people she represented.

"She was a special individual, the like of which we meet rarely. I am privileged to have known her as a friend and colleague."

Cllr Allen was a keen supporter of the Aaron West playground, which was granted permission on October 22. 

Amersham teenager Aaron West died from a rare form of liver cancer in 2010 at the age of 16.

Cllr Allen supporterd the Amersham Revitalisation Group in their quest to transform an area of scrubland off Fieldway, Old Amersham into a playground in his memory. 

Chair of the Chiltern District council, Cllr Mimi Harker, said she was 'shocked and upset' after hearing of Cllr Allen's death.

She said: "Her loss will be keenly felt within the Council where her contribution made such a great impact. She was someone who spoke without rancour and always fought for the greater good.

"I am delighted that she saw the playground scheme, a project so dear to her win approval. She was over the moon knowing how it would benefit the community and bring joy to all generations.

"We have lost a fantastic Councillor, but more than that, a wonderful person."

Did you know Cllr Allen? Leave your tributes below or email stephanie.wareham@london.newsquest.co.uk.