TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Darlington Mayor who has died at the age of 95.

Alan Gill, who served as the town’s mayor between 1979 and 1980, passed away on Friday.

Mr Gill, who worked for British Rail as an engine driver, also spent two and half years as the leader of Darlington’s Labour Party.

Steve Gill, the former Mayor’s son, paid tributes to him – calling him a “great” man.

“He had really fond memories of his time serving as Mayor,” said Steve, 62.

“There wasn’t anything in particular, he just loved it all.”

Mr Gill was born at West Cornforth, County Durham and attended the village’s county school, before beginning work at the age of 14 in Thrislington Colliery.

He moved to Darlington in 1940 and joined British Railways as an engine cleaner and later became an engine driver, before being elected Mayor of Darlington in May 1979.

Mr Gill resigned as president of Darlington Labour Party half way through his third and final year in office after being overruled by committee colleagues.

The engine driver is said to have “rattled out of the meeting like an express train.”

Bill Dixon, leader of Darlington Borough Council, also paid tributes to the “legacy” left behind by Mr Gill.

“I remember Alan joining the council in 1979 and he was there right until he retired - he was available all the time for new members.

“He left behind a great legacy and long may that continue.

“He was a lovely, lovely man and he will be sadly missed.”