TRIBUTES have been paid to popular Harlow councillor Jack Jesse who died at Princess Alexandra Hospital on Saturday (August 18).

Mr Jesse was first elected as a Labour councillor for Little Parndon and Hare Street Ward in May 2002 and re-elected in May 2004. He was already well versed in local politics as he served as a Harlow councillor between 1976 and 1979.

He was well known for his self-effacing humour and flair for fashion, and was an extremely popular councillor.

Joint council leader Tony Durcan (Labour) said: "It's very sad news. Jack was a hard-working and dedicated councillor who will be sorely missed by the local community and the council. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends."

Harlow Council vice-chairman Tony Hall said: "It was with great sadness that I learnt of his death. He was a colourful character who lived a long and varied life and at a time when most men would have retired to the wings, his passion for politics returned him to centre stage as a councillor.

"On more than one occasion I found common cause with him in unlikely alliance.

"On behalf of Harlow Conservative Association and the Conservative group on Harlow Council I send condolences to his family, friends and council colleagues."

Conservative group leader Andrew Johnson said: "I'm sad to learn this news. Jack's family are in our thoughts and prayers at this time."

Joint council leader Chris Millington (Liberal Democrat) said: "I was incredibly saddened to hear of Jack's death. He was a great servant to his local community as well as to Harlow and the council. His contributions will be missed in the council chamber."

Mr Jesse lived in Spring Hills and leaves three children.

His funeral is at Parndon Wood crematorium, Harlow, at 2pm on Friday, August 31.