TRIBUTES have been paid to a former council leader who dies earlier this week.

Joe Milburn, was the leader of Allerdale Borough Council for two years from 2007 as part of the councils alliance.

He was first elected to the council 1991 as Conservative member for Crummock Ward, and he sat on the Executive for four years with the Transport and Parking portfolio.

He went on to serve as Leader of the council in the late 2000's.

Former Labour councillor Mark Fryer spent many years serving alongside Joe when he was Leader of the Conservative group on the council.

Mr Fryer served as the Leader of the council during that time.

Mark Fryer, said: "Joe was so thoughtful and calm in his approach. He always had a quiet word with me when under pressure and his words were always well meant.

"I trusted him as much as anyone, he was a thoroughly decent and principled man. Many of today's politicians could learn a thing or two from Joe Milburn."

Allerdale Borough Council flew the flag at half mast this week to pay their respects to the former leader.

A spokesman for Allerdale Borough council, said : "The flag at our offices in Workington is at half-mast at the moment as a mark of respect for former councillor and Leader of the Council Joe Milburn, who has sadly died.

"Our thoughts are with Joe’s family and friends. RIP Joe."