Nelson Mandela was a "tremendous example"

The South African president and icon of civil rights died at his home in Johannesburg yesterday at the age of 95.

The district council has lowered flags at its offices in High Street, Epping, until 8pm as a mark of respect.

Epping Forest District Council chairman, Mary Sartin, said: “My thoughts are with his family and friends all around the world.

“He has had a long and fulfilled life and been a great inspiration to a huge number of people.

“He has been a tremendous example of what can be achieved by one man.”

Epping Town Councillor Will Breare-Hall has also paid tribute, saying: “The passing of such a remarkable man is clearly a moment of sadness, but it is also an opportunity for us to reflect on and celebrate all that he achieved.

“The world is a better place for Nelson Mandela's 95 years in it, and all of us can learn from the vision and values he embodied. This, I think, will be one of his greatest legacies”.