A MAN who has worked alongside 37 elected members during his role as a parish council clerk has died.

Les Bishop, who was 85, has been described as 'Mr Warndon' for his community efforts and the work he did during 20 years as clerk to Warndon Parish Council.

He also earned praise for his role as a cricket coach and chair of a Worcester-based charity.

The Warndon Villages resident died on Monday (27th) after a short illness.

"Les was a clerk to Warndon Parish Council and was a very loyal servant to the community," said close friend Bob Jenkins, who is clerk to St Peter's Parish Council in Worcester.

"He had tremendous experience and a lot of wisdom.

"I would have called him Mr Warndon. I'll miss him like there's no tomorrow."

Mr Bishop retired from his parish council role in December 2011.

But it wasn't just local politics where Mr Bishop became well-known.

He was chair of the Worcestershire Lifestyles charity since 2004 and a trustee for the past 15 years.

"Les was a huge supporter of Worcestershire Lifestyles and its work with disabled adults," said Tony Whitcher (corr), the group's chief executive.

"Les started volunteering with the charity as a driver at the age of 70.

"His enthusiasm and drive have been instrumental to the development and success of our charity.

"He will be greatly missed by his fellow trustees, staff, volunteers and participants.

"Our thoughts are with Val (his wife) and his family at this sad time."

Mr Bishop was also a keen cricket coach, helping tutor current Worcestershire County Cricket Club captain Daryl Mitchell, and former county stars Tim Curtis and Stuart Lampitt, among others.

In 1986 he was awarded the Torch Trust Trophy for services to cricket and just two years ago won the English Cricket Board Coaches Association/Sky Sports award for outstanding contribution and services to cricket coaching.

Warndon Parish Council paid tribute via former chair, and current member, Ray Morris.

"During his time as clerk to the parish council he witnessed the development of Warndon Villages and worked selflessly with members of the council on behalf of local residents," said Cllr Morris.

"Les was a gentleman with much knowledge and many stories to share and I enjoyed working with him.

"He was a man of great integrity who was always willing to help and share his wisdom with us."