Tributes have been paid to a well-respected Cumbrian councillor who has lost his battle with cancer.

Eden District Council is mourning the loss of councillor Keith Morgan, who died yesterday aged 73.

Mr Morgan, known as 'Councillor Keith', was an extremely well liked, friendly and approachable person, the council said today.

He was first elected to Eden District Council in 1991 as an independent councillor for Appleby.

He has also served on the town council and was involved in the battle to save the Settle-Carlisle railway.

Mr Morgan was particularly proud of his work with the gypsy and traveller community in ensuring that the annual Horse Fair went as harmoniously as possible.

Councillor Kevin Beaty, leader of Eden District Council, said today: "Councillor Keith Morgan served the Appleby Ward with great distinction and I valued his contributions to council meetings which were always measured, thoughtful and timely. 

"His loss will be greatly felt by our local communities and our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife Jenny and sons Matthew and Gareth."

Councillor Morgan held many senior roles during his 25 year service with Eden Council, including two spells as chairman in 2007/08 and 2012/13. His time as council chairman included the Olympic Torch Relay passing through Eden in 2012.

As chairman of Eden council, Mr Morgan raised money for the Great North Air Ambulance, Kirkby Stephen Mountain Rescue, Annie Mawson’s Sunbeams Music Trust and Eden Mind. 

He also met Prince Charles, on the Prince’s visit to Cumbria in 2013.

Councillor Mary Robinson, Independent group leader, said: “Councillor Keith Morgan has been a tower of strength for me and the Independent group at the council. He gave great service to Appleby and to the council and will be sadly missed."

Councillor Morgan was also a keen supporter of the arts and joined the board of Eden Arts in 1991.

Adrian Lochhead, director of Eden Arts, said: "I personally have lost a friend, Appleby and Eden has lost a public servant beyond compare."