People have paid their tributes to a veteran councillor who contributed decades of service to Biddulph, the Moorlands and Staffordshire.

It was announced today that Cllr Ian Lawson, who sat on Biddulph Town Council, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council and Staffordshire County Council, representing the Biddulph North ward for the Conservative Party, has passed away.

Cllr Lawson was called "a loyal friend and colleague" as well as "a mentor" and "a true gentleman".

A spokesperson for the Staffordshire Moorlands Conservative Association said today (Sunday 9th October): "It is with great sadness that we must announce the passing away of Cllr Ian Lawson. Ian was the most loyal friend and colleague that anyone could wish to have.

"Serving Biddulph over many years, Ian always made sure that his town and its people came first when fighting on their behalf at every level of local government.

"At this time we send all of our love and condolences to Ian's family and we will continue to remember him fondly.

"A tribute to Ian will be made at full council on 12th October."

People have since paid their tributes - below are a few of these.

• "Extremely sad that my friend and mentor Cllr Ian Lawson has passed away. He was a great friend and mentor and a true gentleman to everyone who had the privilege to know him. He represented the very best of public service and always put Biddulph first. Deepest condolences to Kay and Ian's family. Rest In Peace, Ian.
• "Ian was a very dear friend of mine. A perfect gentleman always there with his advice and support. I will really miss him. My condolences to Kay and family."
• "A true gentleman, he will be missed by so many people. RIP Ian."
• "RIP Cllr Ian Lawson, a lovely man and a true gentleman."
• "RIP Ian it was a pleasure to have known you."
• "Sorry to hear that. A great servant to his community."
• "He will be sadly missed by both his colleagues and the community that he served for many years. RIP Ian Lawson."
• "Oh my goodness. I'm so sorry to hear this. My thoughts and prayers are with his family."
• "A true gentleman. Deserved recognition for the work that he did over and above his job requirements. RIP."
• "So sad. Ian was a wonderful man and a true gentleman. RIP Ian. Thinking of the family."
• "Condolences to family and and council colleagues. Genuine, likeable gent who did his best for the town, rest in peace."
• "I had the pleasure to work with Ian as a councillor and I hold a lot of respect for this true gentleman and someone who was a great supporter of his community. He will be missed RIP."