More tributes have been paid today to Ian Lawson – a long serving Staffordshire town, district and county councillor.

 We reported yesterday that Ian, who had represented Biddulph North on the county council since 2009, passed away after a long illness.

 Staffordshire County Council Leader Alan White led the tributes to Ian today.

 Alan said: "Ian was a real character, a true gentleman and a loyal servant not only to this county council, but more importantly to the people of Biddulph.

 "He was a councillor who represented his town at every level and was passionate about doing the very best for the residents and businesses of the town.

 "Ian had been very poorly for some time, but he faced his illness in true Ian style, with great courage and humour.

"Although he was quite frail, Ian was determined to return to Full Council in person to receive a much-deserved honour for his long service and was still showing his great spirit and humour as he did so.

 "Ian will be sadly missed by the council and our thoughts are with Ian's wife Kay and his family."

 Ian had represented the Biddulph North (Staffordshire Moorlands) Electoral Division on the County Council since 2009. Ian also served as Chairman of the County Council between May 2012 and May 2015.

Biddulph town council have also paid their tributes today.

A spokesperson said: "Yesterday we lowered the Union flag at the Town Hall to mark the loss of our friend and colleague, Councillor Ian Lawson, following an illness bravely borne.

"Councillor Lawson served as a member of Biddulph Town Council from 2015 until 2019, representing the community of Biddulph West. At the time of his passing, he was a serving District and County Councillor representing the people of our community.

"He will be missed by all at Biddulph Town Council; our thoughts and prayers are with Ian's family and friends at this very sad time."