TRIBUTES have been paid to long-serving Middlesbrough councillor Maelor Williams who has died at the age of 77 following a short illness.

After joining the Liberal party at the age of 16 he first stood for election in Stockton over 50 years ago, and had represented Middlesbrough’s Stainton & Thornton ward for the Liberal Democrats since 1999.

Richard Kilpatrick, Lib Dem prospective parliamentary candidate for Middlesbrough, said: “Maelor was a true inspiration and a very good friend. I can’t put into words how much I will miss him.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today without him, he was a real unsung hero.”

Ian Jones, Chair of North East Liberal Democrats, added: “Maelor Williams was a man of great integrity and held in high esteem by those who knew him.

“Middlesbrough and the North East have lost a passionate local politician, respected by all.

“He exemplified the standards we should always aim for.

“He was selfless in his service to the community and a true ‘liberal’ to the core of his being. We will miss him so much.”

Middlesbrough Mayor, Ray Mallon, added: “I would describe him as ‘the gentleman’ of politics and when he spoke, people listened. Considering he was the only Lib Dem member of the Council, it was quite amazing how he could influence the agenda through rational and logical argument.

“Maelor was genuinely a nice man who I liked a great deal and the council will be a different place without him.”

The flag over Middlesbrough Town Hall is flying at half-mast as a mark of respect.

Councillor Williams’ Stainton & Thornton seat will be contested at the council elections on Thursday, May 7.