Tributes after death of long-serving councillor

Bob Matthews was one of the longest-serving councillors at Herefordshire Council

A long-serving councillor who "benefitted many people" has died.

Bob Matthews had been a member of Herefordshire Council since it became a unitary authority on 1 April 1998.

An "active champion of local democracy," he was ward member for Credenhill, group leader of the True Independents and had also served on a number of committees.

Council leader Jonathan Lester said Mr Matthews, who died on Thursday, had "dedicated so much of his life" to serving the public.

“On behalf of all Herefordshire councillors I want to express our sadness at the death of Councillor Bob Matthews," he said.

Mr Matthews was "extremely passionate" and "active in representing his constituents," having benefited many people over his many years of service, he added.

“Many members of this council were encouraged to stand as a councillor as a result of his active engagement and passion around the role councillors play in serving this county," he said. "He will be missed by us all."

“Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and colleagues.”

As a mark of respect the Union Flag at the Shirehall will remain at half-mast until the day of his funeral.