Tributes have poured in for a 'dedicated' Brandon councillor and 'absolute gentleman' who has passed away.

Forest Heath district and Brandon town councillor David Bimson was praised by colleagues as a 'brave' and 'hard working' man who will be 'sorely missed'.

The 70-year-old had reportedly been suffering from stomach and kidney problems before his death on Wednesday.

Reg Silvester, Brandon town, Forest Heath district and Suffolk county councillor, said: 'It is a great loss to the community.

'In the last few years David has been very dedicated to the town. He has worked hard for it at the town council and district councils. I considered him an absolute gentleman in both places.

'You couldn't hope to meet a nicer man. Sadly his demise was quick.'

Mr Silvester said Mr Bimson had been 'very open' to fellow councillors about his wish to 'tidy things up' before he died.

The Brandon West councillor, who was elected in 2011, was serving as chairman of Forest Heath council before he announced his decision to step down on February 3.

Mr Silvester said: 'He was very brave, he spoke openly about tidying things up before he left, which takes a bit of time. It goes to show the character of the man.'

James Waters, Forest Heath council leader, issued a tribute saying: 'David was a good, hard-working, well-liked man and councillor.

'He had been very active representing not just the people of the Brandon West ward who elected him, but the whole of the district.

'We have all lost a friend. He will be sorely missed and our sympathies are with his family.'

Fellow town and district councillor Peter Ridgwell said: 'David was a very nice man and a good councillor. He was also a photographer, he used to travel to different wild islands all around the UK. He went to the Farne and Shetland Islands.'

Did you know David Bimson and wish to leave a tribute? Email bethany.whymark@archant.co.uk