Mayor killed in crash was 'dedicated to community'

Councillor Barry Panter died following a car crash on 13 February

The mayor of Newcastle-under-Lyme, who died following a car crash last week, had a "truly admirable" dedication to the community, an MP has said in tribute.

Barry Panter had been a Conservative on Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council since 2016, and was elected mayor last year.

He raised money for the Salvation Army and Headway North Staffordshire during his term in office.

The praise by Stoke-on-Trent South MP Dr Allison Gardner, Labour, has been echoed by other MPs across Staffordshire.

Newcastle Borough Council has flown the union flag at its headquarters at half mast

Newcastle's MP Adam Jogee, Labour, said his thoughts and prayers "go out to all who knew him, and who, like me, will miss him".

David Williams, the Labour MP for Stoke-on-Trent North, said he first met Mr Panter at a fundraising event, and found him to be an "incredibly decent person".

Stafford's MP Leigh Ingham, Labour, stated she was sending his family "courage and peace during this time of sorrow".

The crash happened on Thursday evening. Mr Panter had chaired a meeting of full council the evening before, leaving fellow members shocked.

The borough council said the RAF veteran, who also served with South Wales Constabulary, moved to North Staffordshire in 2002 and was first elected to represent the Loggerheads ward.

Simon Tagg, leader of the authority, said the thoughts of the council were with Mr Panter's wife Beatrice, his family and friends.