Councillors have paid tribute to the skill and professionalism of Steve Stewart, the interim chief executive of Worcestershire County Council, who died on Thursday aged just 64.

Mr Stewart's death came as a complete shock to the councillors he worked closely with.

Councillor Andy Roberts, cabinet member for children and families worked closely with Mr Stewart on improving the troubled service.

He said: "This was a complete shock and of course a human tragedy.

"Mr Stewart was very able vastly experienced and very keen still to move things forward at Worcester and elsewhere. He played a big part I the work we’ve been doing to improve children’s services, and had very good connections to the Department for Education.

He will be missed both professionally and personally."

Councillor Ken Pollock, member for economy and infrastructure sat on the selection panel that gave Mr Steward the job as interim chief executive after Clare Marchant left County Hall for a job at UCAS in Cheltenham.

He said: "I knew he was the right man for the job. He has made a great contribution in the time that he has been here.

"He had a very impressive CV and had run Northumberland County Council for many years and made it into a unitary authority.

"His death aged 64 was completely out of the blue and is a great shock. It’s very sad."

Worcestershire County Council Chairman Anne Hingley said: "As Chairman of Worcestershire County Council, I am deeply saddened by the news of Steve Stewart's passing.

"I am extremely grateful to Steve for his excellent service to Worcestershire and the County Council. I worked closely with Steve in relation to Children's Services and his experience and input were invaluable.

"I send our condolences to his friends and family. Our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult and sad time."

Council leader Simon Geraghty was not available for comment

The new permanent chief executive at County Hall, Paul Robinson is due to take up his post on March 19