TRIBUTES have been paid following the death of Cheshire West and Chester councillor Andy Williams.

Cllr Williams, who represented Neston, sadly passed away yesterday after suffering a brain haemorrhage (April 25).

Cheshire West and Chester Council leader Louise Gittins announced on social media "with great sadness" that her "kind" and "thoughtful" colleague had died, whilst sharing a photograph of Cllr Williams opening a brand new play area in his ward.

She posted on Twitter: "In the photo Andy is seen at his most happiest at the opening of a brand new play area in his ward, in the pirate boat he campaigned hard to get.

"He was passionate about the children in his ward of Neston, that he served and wanted the very best for his community. He was kind, thoughtful and didn’t have a bad bone in his body I’ll miss my neighbouring comrade.

"Thoughts and condolences to his family and friends, they were his world. RIP Andy we’ll miss you."

Ellesmere Port and Neston MP Justin Madders said: "I first met Andy around twenty years ago when he was elected to the old Borough Council and ever since then he has been a good friend and colleague who always had the best interests of the people of Neston at heart.

"As someone who grew up and lived in the area he represented it seemed that he knew everyone in Neston, and everyone knew him. He was not only well known but also well liked by everyone and we will all have many fond memories of the times we spent together.

"He was a Labour man through and through and a great trade unionist but above all else he was an integral part of the community and will be sorely missed. Our thoughts are with his family at this desperately sad time.”