TRIBUTES have been paid to a stalwart of Thurrock Labour Party and a man well known and remembered for his work among the Thurrock Scouting Community.

Colin Ricks, 60, who was trained and worked as a local baker earlier in his life, died in hospital after a short illness on Tuesday (6 June), though he had previously fought a long battle against health issues.

Thurrock Labour Leader Cllr John Kent said: "I am deeply saddened at Colin's passing.

"Colin had battled poor health for many years, but he always seemed to bounce back and it didn't stop him working tirelessly for the Labour Party - even to the point of carrying out some of the administration of the recent local elections from his hospital bed.

"Colin was a mainstay in the back room of Thurrock Labour Party, was my election agent for the 2017 and 2019 General Elections and - above all - a very good friend to me.

"I will miss his steadfast support, wise counsel, and keen sense of humour.

"Our thoughts are very much with his wife Val and wider family at this sad time."

Former borough Labour MP Andrew Mackinlay was another to pay tribute, saying: "Colin was a wonderful supporter of the Labour party and a very good friend.

"I have many great memories of him and also of his long and painful battle with illness. I hope he is at rest now. He will be very much missed."

Labour's would-be successor to Mr Mackinlay was then borough councillor Carl Morris. Labour narrowly lost the election but it was not for the want of effort from Mr Ricks.

Mr Morris recalls: "Colin was desperate for us to win in 2010. He was unwell and to breathe he had an oxygen bottle. He said 'I will do anything to help' and so he took on delivering leaflets. He carried the oxygen bottle all around the Uplands estate in Aveley as he delivered thos leaflets. That's how committed he was to Labour.

"He was a truly great and committed supporter of the Labour party but above all he was a good friend to so many people. he will truly be missed."

Thurrock Scouts District Commissioner Graham Monk also spoke warmly of Mr Ricks, who was at one time a group scout leader but who retained his long association with the movement over many years.

"There will be many in Thurrock who have fond memories of Colin, who made a great contribution to scouting. He will be very much missed."