TRIBUTES have been paid to a former mayor of Royal Wootton Bassett who raised tens of thousands of pounds for The Fire Fighters Charity. Chris Wannell, who died aged 79 on Monday after a short illness, was praised for his “unfailing support” for charitable causes and his commitment to the community. Today, flags are being flown at half mast at fire stations across Dorset and Wiltshire as a mark of respect for the former fireman. It is anticipated his coffin will be carried through Royal Wootton Bassett later this month on the back of “Martha”, the 1943 fire engine he bought in 1975 and lovingly restored.