A COUNCIL has paid tribute to a Chester-le-Street councillor who died suddenly this week.

Chester-le-Street District councillor Keith Lambert, 59, died of what is believed to have been a heart attack.

On Tuesday, his colleagues on the council paid tribute to the Labour man.

Coun Lambert had been with the council since 1979 and only stepped down from his position as deputy leader in May this year, after about ten years in the post.

After being re-elected in the recent elections, he was made executive member for a new personal, equalities and internal communications committee.

He retired from his job in the construction industry about two years ago.

Leader of the council, Coun Linda Ebbatson said: "Keith's death is a great loss, not only to his family and the council, but also to the wider community in the district. His wisdom and experience will be sadly missed."

Chief executive Mick Waterson added his own words of sympathy, saying: "I worked with Keith for over 20 years and valued his support and friendship greatly.

"He will be a great loss to his family and everyone who knew him."

Funeral arrangements for the North ward councillor had not been announced when the Advertiser went to press.