THE son of a former mayor of Wem has paid tribute to his late friend Olivia Newton-John after she died earlier this week.

Jon Dee, who lives in Australia, was friends with the Grease star for more than 30 years.

Ms Newton-John died on Monday (Aug 8) at her home in California after a long battle against breast cancer.

Mr Dee, who is the son of Pauline Dee, first met the singer and actress because they were both passionate on environmental issues.

He said together they founded National Tree Day and One Tree Per Child.

He added: "A totally devastating day today. I lost Olivia Newton-John, my wonderful, lovely friend of 30 years.

"We created real change together, she was an amazing lovely woman.

"Having to speak to my daughter Estelle (whose middle name is Olivia) about Olivia's passing was the hardest thing I had to do today. We will miss her so much.

"Olivia and I got to have a lovely exchange of correspondence recently. We said what we needed to say to each other.

"I am so grateful for that, but my heart is broken."

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Mr Dee said he spoke about the work he and Ms Newton-John did for the environment in his last letter to her.

He added: "For the last 30 years I’ve been friends with Olivia Newton-John.

"Together we started National Tree Day and ⁦One Tree Per Child.

⁩"In my last letter to her, I told her of the great things she’d done for the environment and wildlife.

"This was her reply.

"She said she was proud of what we achieved.

"I'll miss her so much."

John Travolta, who starred alongside Ms Newton-John in the Hollywood classic Grease paid tribute to his co-star in an Instagram post.

Mr Travolta wrote: "My dearest Olivia, you made all our lives so much better. Your impact was incredible.

"I love you so much.

"We will see you down the road and we will all be together again.

"Yours from the first moment I saw you and forever.

"Your Danny, your John."