TRIBUTES have been paid to a longstanding councillor who has died, aged 80, following a battle with cancer.

Conservative Peter Spencer, who represented Guisborough’s Hutton ward on Redcar and Cleveland Council since 1999, had lived in Guisborough for more than 50 years and had been involved in local politics since the 1960s.

During his year as Redcar and Cleveland Mayor in 2005-6, he nominated Diabetic UK Northern and Yorkshire region, the Zoe’s Place children’s hospice and Teesside Hospice as his chosen charities.

Council leader, Labour councillor Sue Jeffrey said: “Peter was a great friend to everyone, regardless of politics. He made a huge contribution to many aspects of the work and life of the council and was particularly known for his expertise in planning and design matters.

"For his time as chair of planning and his longstanding role as ‘design champion’, he brought his experience and knowledge to many of our big regeneration and building projects.”

Fellow Hutton ward councillor and leader of the council’s Conservative group, Cllr Valerie Halton added: “He was respected for the untiring and notable manner in which he always carried out the responsibilities of the various offices he so ably occupied.

"As well as being well-respected within the council, Peter was a recognisable figure in the town.

"I well remember his pride and humility at having been elected by so many people that he knew and he went on to serve the town so well in many different capacities.

“Though a staunch, committed Conservative, he never let party politics get in the way of his warm character and dealt with everyone in the same friendly manner.

"We will miss his enthusiasm, experience and sound guidance and good humour.”