Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Michael Brinton, dies

Michael Brinton was recognised in the Queen's New Years Honours

The Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Michael Brinton, has died, aged 70.

Mr Brinton, who was diagnosed with cancer a year ago, died at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham on Monday, the county council said.

Mr Brinton, who was the Queen's representative in the county, had been a businessman at the helm of family firm Brinton's carpets for many years.

He was appointed a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order in the Queen's New Year Honours.

Mr Brinton was honoured in recognition of services to the royal family.

A spokeswoman for Worcestershire County Council said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Michael Brinton, Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire.

"Michael passed away peacefully... at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham after bravely fighting cancer over the last year.

"A private family funeral will be followed by a memorial service in Worcester Cathedral in the autumn."