A FORMER Conservative council leader of 15 years has sadly died.

Tributes have been paid to Terry Cutmore, who served as Rochford District Council leader from 2004 to 2019.

A statement on the council’s Twitter feed announced the news, saying “It is with the greatest regret that Rochford District Council have to announce the passing of our vice-chairman and ward councillor for Hockley and Ashingdon, councillor Terry Cutmore.”

Mr Cutmore died after contracting the coronavirus.

Rayleigh and Wickford MP Mark Francois confirmed the diagnosis and paid tribute to him.

He said: “Terry Cutmore gave very good service to the people of Essex over many years, at both district and county council level.

"His cheery countenance and positive outlook, combined with a good sense of humour, was a strong feature of his character and he will be sorely missed.

"Our thoughts are very much with his widow Sue and her family at this very difficult time.”

Mr Cutmore had served as a Conservative councillor for Hockley and Ashingdon since 1999, and was the vice chairman of the council since May last year when he stepped down as leader at the age of 66.

Mike Steptoe, leader of the council, said: “We are deeply saddened and shocked to learn of Councillor Cutmore’s passing yesterday morning. Naturally our thoughts and prayers are with his family at this very difficult time.”

The opposition party, Rayleigh and Wickford Labour, have also paid tribute to Mr Cutmore, saying: “We are truly sorry to hear the news of the passing of Rochford District Council Vice Chair and Hockley & Ashingdon Councillor Terry Cutmore.

“Sending sincere condolences to his family and friends from Rayleigh & Wickford Labour Party.”

When he stepped down in May last year, Mr Cutmore told the Echo the number of years as leader “was an achievement in itself”.

Residents have also paid tribute to him on social media.

Lisa Collins wrote: “Very sad to hear this news.

“Cllr Cutmore always had time for a friendly word when I worked at the Civic Suite.”

Mike Webb added: “Terry was a kind, generous and thoughtful man, he will be greatly missed.”