TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of Dawlish councillor Mike James.

Dawlish Town Council has announced he has died following a short illness.

In a statement, the council said he will be remembered for his commitment to public service and his contribution to the community.

The Liberal Democrat was elected to Dawlish Town council in 2019 representing Dawlish South West ward and also on Teignbridge District Council for the same ward.

Before moving the Dawlish, Mike had a long-standing commitment to public life, having previously served as a councillor at Torbay Council during the 2000s.

In addition, he gave his time voluntarily as a Governor of Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, demonstrating his dedication to supporting local health services.

Mayor of Dawlish, Councillor Anthony James, said: ‘Today we mourn the loss of our oldest Town Councillor and friend Mike James following a fall when he went to the aid of another person who had collapsed in the street.

‘Mike, also fondly known by me as my Jessie James, was our oldest member on the council and was halfway through his 90th year.

‘For his age he kept himself active with being an elected council member, he was also an active board member at Torbay hospital.

‘Mike was a role model for us all, he was passionate about his community, the people he served and the elderly.

‘He was quiet and deliberate when he spoke delivering his message loud and clear.

‘Mike was a quiet and knowledgeable person, who lived in many countries, worked in health and as a qualified solicitor, who later became a coroner’s officer.

‘Thank you Mike you were a role model to us all, his warmth, his humour, advice, words of wisdom and knowledge, is not lost with his passing, as he has touched us all with his generosity.

‘Sleep well our friend as memories will remain with all you have touched.’

As a mark of respect, the town council’s flag will be flown at half mast at the Manor House.