DUDLEY North MP Ian Austin has paid tribute to former Dudley Labour councillor, Jeff Jewkes, who died earlier this week.

The popular Gornal-ward councillor, who also served the authority as deputy mayor, died on Wednesday night after being diagnosed with terminal cancer around 10 days ago.

Jeff, who was also battling Parkinsons, was admitted to hospital around six weeks ago, just days after attending the Labour Party celebrations at the Mayor-making event at the Council House at the end of May.

Ian Austin MP, said: “We're all very upset by the terrible news “Jeff was a great man. He served the people of Gornal and Dudley with great distinction.

“He helped huge numbers of people in the area and worked so hard for the Labour Party

“Just a few weeks ago Jeff was working day and night as he always did in the elections so the severity of his illness has been a real shock.

“I'll never forget the friendship, advice and support he always gave me.”