TRIBUTES are being paid to a long-serving councillor who has died after a fall.

Councillor Roy Seabourne, one of the best-known members of Droitwich Town Council, passed away on Thursday.

The grassroots politician was a member of the Labour Party for more than 50 years and was elected to the town council in 2003.

The pensioner, who lived in Corbett Avenue, represented the West ward of the town.

He served on Wychavon District Council from 1997 to 2007, chairing the planning committee and was involved in all the major development decisions of that time.

He was also a trustee for various charities including Age UK Droitwich and Speakeasy, which helps people with learning disabilities.

A former business consultant, he was also heavily involved in the Sunday band concerts at the Lido park.

Droitwich Town Council released a statement last night describing him as a “passionate and dedicated” member.

Councillor Edgar Harwood, from the Labour group, said: “He was a valued and wonderful colleague to us all.

“He was a member of this party for over 50 years.”

Conservative Councillor Pam Davey, current chairman of Worcestershire County Council and a fellow town councillor, said: “It is very sad to hear about Roy, we might not have always agreed but we always respected each other.

“There was no posturing with Roy, he had his view and respected those who did not always agree with him.

“He always had the best interests of people at heart, and worked so tirelessly for the public of Droitwich Spa.”

A humanist funeral will take place at 3.15pm on September 25 at Worcester Crematorium, taken by Cllr Harwood.

People are asked to bring no flowers, but instead make donate to St Richard’s Hospice in lieu of flowers.

He is survived by wife Sheila.