TRIBUTES have been paid to the first leader of Basildon Council and ‘champion of the working class’.

Well known and highly regarded politician, Joseph Edward Morgan, known as Joe, has passed away aged 90.

Born in Canning Town into a family of six boys and seven girls, Mr Morgan joined the Merchant Navy at 16 during the war.

After being torpedoed by a German U-boat, he joined the army, where he met his wife of almost 60 years, German-born Christina.

The pair moved to Basildon with son, Harry in 1953, and Mr Morgan quickly immersed himself in local politics.

In May 1958 he won a seat on the then Basildon Urban District Council, representing the Vange ward. In 1965 he became the first leader of the newly-formed Basildon Council and in 1971 spent a year as chairman.

Once dubbed “The Father of Basildon” he was the champion of ordinary working-class people and despite his rise to political power he always kept faith with the people and loyal to his roots.

His was a time of straight talking, tell it how it is, no nonsense firebrand politics.

After nearly 20 years in power he became a social worker and continued to work for the people of Basildon until retirement.

Throughout his retirement he continued to be a thorn in the side on both sides of the political divide, sticking up for injustice where he saw it and regularly writing letters and taking part in radio phone-ins.

A family spokesman said: “A true family man, he adored his son, three grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchild and they, alongside his wife, were his life.

“His devotion to his family and their love for him was never more evident than in his final days in Basildon hospital, with the family holding vigil constantly until he slipped away peacefully surrounded by their love.

“The death of the once great political leader of Basildon may pass without many of today’s inhabitants having even heard of him but his impact on the town was immense and indeed on the loving family he leaves behind.”

Mr Morgan’s funeral will take place tomorrow, at Pitsea Crematorium at 9am. Public are welcome.