Eden District Council is mourning the loss of one of its newest councillors

Paul Connor was elected to represent Penrith South Ward as an Independent councillor in May but died on Saturday after a short illness.

Council leader Virginia Taylor said: “Everybody at the council has been shocked to hear of Paul’s early death. Our thoughts are with his family.”

And councillor Mary Robinson, leader of the independent group, praised Mr Connor’s desire to help his community.

She said: “On behalf of the Independent group I would like to pay tribute to Paul. In the short time since he joined the group before the elections, he showed a great passion for making a difference.

“He was delighted to be elected by his residents and was keen to get on with the job ahead. His wise counsel will be sadly missed and we extend our sympathy to his wife Jean and family.”

During his time on the council, Mr Connor was appointed to the Environment and Economy Scrutiny Committee and the Housing and Communities Scrutiny Committee. He was also a standing deputy on both the Licensing and Planning Committees.

Mr Connor was also appointed to serve on GLL’s Eden board.