FORMER mayor of Teignmouth Vince Fusco has died at the age of 88.

Mr Fusco served as Mayor of Teignmouth three times and was presented with a long service medal by the town council in 2019.

He also served as a councillor on Teignbridge District Council.

One of his claims to fame was when he made history by throwing away a single by of the town’s most famous bands Muse.

When the band first became famous, they claimed the town was ‘boring’ which prompted Mr Fusco to throw the record in the bin in response to their disparaging comments about Teignmouth.

Years later however, Mr Fusco admitted he had been wrong and that the Teignmouth group had been good for the town.

He also raised hackles when he complained that the front office at Bitton House was ‘a bit untidy’, prompting the town clerk at the time, Dave Tickell, to storm out of a Town Council meeting.

However, his straight-talking approach reflected his ability to get things done.

Current town, district and county councillor David Cox said: ‘He served Teignmouth and its interests for a very long time.’

Before becoming a councillor, Mr Fusco had worked in the hospitality sector, running restaurants in Weymouth and in Teignmouth.

‘Most people know of him as having Fortes ice cream parlour back in the 60s and 70s,’ said Vince’s daughter Tina.

Current mayor of Teignmouth Cate Williams paid tribute to Vince. ‘I was saddened to hear of the recent passing of Vince Fusco and on behalf of Teignmouth Town Council send our condolences to his family,’ she said.

Vince’s love of Teignmouth and his support of the town in his Mayor and Councillor roles shone through in everything he did. ‘He worked hard to ensure that his ‘lovely and marvellous’ Teignmouth continued to thrive, bringing together the local business community and residents,’ she continued.

‘Using his role as a Town Councillor, Vince was passionate in supporting the smaller businesses, arguing for them when the threat of increased overheads was a real threat.’

Cate is particularly grateful to Vince’s help to new members of the council. ‘Vince’s knowledge of local politics and Teignmouth was informative, guiding and supporting. As a newly elected Councillor, I continue to remember the support and words of wisdom passed on to me by Vince along with many discussions about ‘hats’ which should be worn by the Lady Mayoress. A very entertaining man, whose company I am sure will be missed by many.’

Vince will be very much remembered by those left at Teignmouth Town Council with upmost appreciation for all that he provided through his service to the community,’ Cate said.

Vince died at Torbay Hospital on November 23 and his funeral service is to take place at Our Lady and St Patrick's Church, Teignmouth on Tuesday December 17 December 2024 at 10am.

No flowers by request with donations going to The Royal British Legion by retiring collection at the service.