AN inquest has been opened into the death of a 74-year-old councillor.

Tributes were have been paid to George Calvert, who was found in his Peterlee home last Monday.

Police have confirmed that there are no suspicious circumstances.

Coun Calvert had represented the Howletch ward on Peterlee Town Council for the past five years.

Council leader Bill Jeffrey described him as a hard working councillor who was "very conscientious".

"He will be especially missed for his sense of humour," he said.

A member of Acre Rigg Social Club in the town, Coun Calvert was well-known in the community from his days singing on the club circuit.

Though he had represented the Peterlee ward for the past five years, Coun Calvert had decided not to stand at the forthcoming local elections.

A widower, he leaves three children.