THE death has been announced of former Mayor of Thurrock Gordon Barton.

Mr Barton was the Labour councillor for West Thurrock from 1990 to 1994 before serving In Chadwell, where he lived, from 1994 to 2008.

He had the honour of serving as Mayor of Thurrock in Queen Elizabeth's golden jubilee year of 2002.

Labour Group leader, John Kent, led the tributes to Mr Barton, saying: "Gordon Barton was one of the old school local councillors.

"The most important thing for Gordon was representing the residents living in his ward as well as regular advice surgeries, Gordon would walk his ward every weekend picking up and reporting issues.

"Together with his late wife, Beverley, they formed a formidable partnership. Gordon was always willing to help and would offer advice - whether requested or not - freely, generously and honestly.

"Gordon was a kind and thoughtful man, I am deeply saddened at his passing, and our thoughts are with his daughter, Estelle, at this difficult time."