Former chief minister Mike Torode dies aged 83

Mike Torode (left) shared his 15 months in the office of chief minister with his deputy, Stuart Falla

The former chief minister of Guernsey Mike Torode has died at the age of 83.

His family confirmed that he passed away peacefully on 3 September and that an open invitation funeral service will be held at St Martin's Parish Church at 13:00 BST on 12 September.

Mr Torode's political career spanned more than three decades, having first been elected as deputy for St Martin's in April 1979, making him one of the longest-serving members of the States of Guernsey.

He was described as "a gentleman" by the president of home affairs Rob Prow, who said the island had lost one of its "strongest characters".

In 2004, Mr Torode became deputy for the South East of the island and took on the role of home affairs minister.

Three years later, he was elected chief minister, a position he held until the end of his term in 2008.

'Dedicated to Guernsey'

Mr Prow said he was "truly saddened" to hear of the passing of Mr Torode.

"We first met when I was a customs officer and he was working for British Midlands Airways at the airport, and from that point, right up until our most recent interactions, he was respectful, straight-down-the-line, and dedicated to Guernsey," he said.

“Mike had a very long history of service to this island. He was the minister for home affairs for a term, during which I served as his chief customs officer.

"During that time, Mike was always a gentleman, while also being a straight-talker."

He added that Mr Torode was "a huge advocate" for the department’s professional services, showing constant support for officers and a genuine interest in their work.

"Mike later became the island’s chief minister, where he continued to demonstrate how a deputy should put the interests of Guernsey first," Mr Prow said.

"Guernsey has lost one of its strongest characters with Mike’s passing, and he will undoubtedly be missed by so many."