TRIBUTES are being paid at County Hall following the sudden death of Worcestershire County Council's public relations manager.

Kevin Galloway, who was 42, died after a suspected heart attack last Thursday. He was married to Maria and had two children, five-year-old Ethan and two-year-old Mary.

Mr Galloway, who had been the authority's PR manager since 1995, was best known for masterminding the 'Ludicrous Lollipop Law' campaign, which led to national rules on school crossing patrols being changed to give extra protection to children and toddlers.

He also oversaw the early days of the county council after the Hereford-Worcester authority was divided in 1998.

"We're all mourning the sudden loss of our colleague and friend," said Rob Sykes, the county council's chief executive.

"Our thoughts are firmly with Kevin's family and loved ones at such a tragic time.

"Kevin was a unique and passionate man whose enthusiasm for doing the right thing touched many, many people in the county council and beyond. Those of us who knew Kevin well are still struggling to come to terms with the news."