WARM tributes have been paid to a Worcestershire councillor who died last month - with politicians calling him "a gentleman".

As the Worcester News first reported last month, Conservative Maurice Broomfield has passed away aged 87.

The veteran Tory made a name for himself at Worcestershire County Council opposing the controversial Hartlebury incinerator, defying his party's leadership over the years.

During a full council meeting all sides of the chamber united to pay their respects to Councillor Broomfield, a former High bailiff and third generation fruit farmer.

Councillor Kit Taylor said: "I've known Maurice for 40 years, he was a friend of my parents - I met him when I was chairman of the young Conservatives in Bromsgrove and he came to give a talk on apple trees.

"Maurice was a smiling gentleman, some may have seen him as an elderly gentleman, but his mind was always very acute.

"And he was always looking to protect his residents - when I first became a councillor I saw him in a lift and he gave me some advice.

"He said 'always smile at people, always be polite', believing it would set the tone for the meeting."

He also noted his opposition to the rubbish-burning incinerator, saying he would defend causes he believed in.

Councillor Tony Miller, the chairman, added: "Maurice was always a well-loved, respected person in his ward.

"He cared very much for others, you always saw that twinkle in his eye - that is how we'll remember him, and we will always remember Maurice."

Councillor Broomfield was first elected onto Bromsgrove District Council way back in 1973, staying there until 1995 before securing his Ombersley seat at County Hall.

He was also the chairman at Worcestershire County Council in the 1997/98 municipal year.

During his career he was also involved with rotary initiatives, sat on the Herefordshire & Worcestershire Fire and Rescue Authority, and was one of the instigators of the twinning movement in the county.

He leaves behind his long-term partner Elizabeth, his son Colin, two daughters Sally and Jane, and five grandchildren.