Redcar and Cleveland Council is mourning the death of Dormanstown ward councillor Cliff Houlding.

Councillor Houlding, 65, collapsed and died at his home in Dormanstown on Tuesday after returning from his part-time lecturing role in construction at Redcar and Cleveland College.

Council Leader Councillor George Dunning led the tributes as the Town Hall's flag was flown at half mast and plans for a minute's silence at tomorrow's Council meeting were being organised.

Councillor Dunning said: "I, along with many of Councillor Cliffy Houlding's friends are deeply saddened at the loss of a great friend and political ally.

"Cliffy was an excellent councillor for Dormanstown. Our thoughts are with Cliffy's family at this very sad and difficult time."

Councillor Houlding was the chairman of the Council's controlling Labour group, the chairman of Coast & Country Housing, the chairman of the Council's Redcar Area Committee, the chairman of Dormanstown Primary School governors and also a governor at Redcar Community College.

Councillor Houlding leaves a widow Sandra, daughter Debs, son in law Jamie and grandson Josh. Cliff and Sandra had recently celebrated their ruby wedding anniversary.

Funeral details will be announced later.