TRIBUTES have been made to a former Hartlepool councillor and Alderman who has died at the age of 86.

Alderman Dennis Bentley was a Labour councillor for the St Hilda Ward from 1986 until his retirement from local politics in 1999.

During his time as a councillor he took a keen interest in housing, the environment and the local economy. He sat on numerous committees and was chair of the housing management and social services regulatory activities sub-committees.

Hartlepool's Ceremonial Mayor Councillor Stephen Akers-Belcher, said: "Everyone had respect for Dennis. He was a very kind man who loved his family and always worked hard serving those he was elected to represent in the former St Hilda Ward.

"He helped to bring about a lot of environmental improvements to the Headland and was also instrumental in the upgrading of the Fish Quay and a new sewage system which improved the beaches and water quality.

“He was granted the title of Honorary Alderman in 1999 which reflected the great contribution he made to our town. Our deepest condolences are with Dennis's family and friends at this sad time."

Born and brought up in Hull, Alderman Bentley spent most of his working life on the railways and at British Steel, Hartlepool. He moved to Hartlepool with his wife Joan in 1959. He leaves his wife Joan, son Michael, daughter Janet and grand-son Christopher.

Away from his political life, Dennis did a great deal to help the youth of the town working for many years at the Central and Bridge youth clubs in his spare time.

Alderman Bentley’s funeral will take place at Stranton Crematorium on Wednesday, January 28 at 2.30pm.