TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of a respected community stalwart.

Former headteacher Bill Stockdale, who lived in Leadgate, near Consett, and was well known in the area, died last Wednesday.

The 87-year-old had been suffering from cancer and died at Willow Burn Hospice, near Lanchester, but had been cared for at home.

He was headteacher at Newker Primary School in Chester-le-Street and Burnhope Primary School and during his career he taught primary school children in Leadgate and older pupils in Moorside.

He served as a councillor on Derwentside District Council for over 20 years and formed the Independent Progressive Party, later Derwentside Independents.

Former council leader Alex Watson said: “Bill was a hero of the people and did what he could for those he represented.

“He had a heart of gold and was very well liked. He left his mark on local politics and will be missed.”

As a local historian Mr Stockdale, was president and secretary of Leadgate History Society and also president of Leadgate Cricket Club.

He wrote over thirty local history books.

Brian Harrison, of Consett and District Heritage Initiative, said: “It is major loss to Consett and the heritage community, especially Leadgate.

“Bill was a lovely man with a lot of local knowledge who I am honoured to have known.

“He will be greatly missed. He has been a keen advocate of learning and collating heritage for many years being the major force behind the Leadgate History Society.

“He has been a regular exhibitor at the CDHI Exhibitions and has always been willing to share his knowledge. A great man who will be missed by many.”

Leadgate Cricket Club has also sent condolences to Mr Stockdale’s family.

A spokesman for the club said: “Mr Stockdale was a great supporter of Leadgate Cricket Club, including holding the position of president for many years.

“A true champion of the community and history of Leadgate. He will be greatly missed by all.”

Mr Stockdale leaves a wife, Carole, and a son, Michael.

His funeral is on Monday, October 10 at 11am at Leadgate Methodist Church followed by cremation at Mountsett Crematorium.