TRIBUTES have been paid to a Worcestershire councillor who devoted his life to politics and the people he served.

Councillor Edward Sheldon, or Ted to all who knew him, has been described as a well-respected, much-loved man who was a “tremendous ambassador” for Worcestershire.

He was awarded an MBE for services to politics in 1983 after starting aged 20.

Coun Sheldon died aged 83 on Wednesday morning following a short battle with throat cancer.

Flags at County Hall were flying at half-mast yesterday.

Speaking to your Worcester News, Coun Sheldon’s wife of more than 40 years, Daphne, of Northwick, Worcester, said: “He loved his council work, he really enjoyed it. His whole life was spent giving to the council.

"He was a very devoted servant to the council and the Conservative party.

“He was a very caring man and nothing was too much trouble for any of his constituents.

“They came first and I might even say I came second at times.

“He loved his council work and loved working for people.”

Coun Sheldon, who worked in social services before retiring to take up a seat at Worcestershire County Council, had represented constituents in the Bowbrook ward, Wychavon, since 1985.

He was made chairman of the county council in 2003/04, was cabinet member for social services in 2001/02, and was a member of numerous committees, panels and other public bodies including West Mercia Police – he was also a chairman of the South Worcestershire Policing Board.

Coun Sheldon’s earlier political life included 12 years as a councillor in Ludlow and four years with Worcester City Council.

Worcestershire County Council leader Councillor Dr George Lord said: “He was very well-known and greatly respected.

“He was a man of great loyalty.” Councillor Stephen Clee, cabinet member for corporate services, said he had lost a “dear friend” and added: “Residents have lost a great man, a very proud Worcestershire man.”

Coun Clee said Coun Sheldon was a “conduit” in the Conservative group at County Hall.

“He was loved by staff, members and public alike,” said Coun Clee.

“He was a tremendous ambassador for this county and we all are touched to have been around him in this life.”

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.