TRIBUTES have been paid to a much-loved father-of-three and councillor who was committed to helping the community.

David Regan served as a Darlington Borough Council’s Cockerton ward member and was a keen volunteer, supporting charities in the town.

Cllr Regan died in his Darlington home on Sunday, May 27, aged 46. He was surrounded by his family.

Councillor Bill Dixon, leader of Darlington Borough Council, said: “Dave brought an awful lot to the role of a local councillor. He previously worked at the SureStart centres in the Cockerton area and did a lot of work with voluntary organisations, such as the furniture charity Frade and Age UK.

“He truly was a committed community activist, an active vice chair of the planning committee and a committed campaigner for causes close to his heart, such as men’s health.

“He will be missed and our thoughts are with his family at this very difficult time.”

A minute’s silence was observed by planning committee members and the public at the start of the committee’s meeting on Wednesday in a mark of respect to the late councillor.