TRIBUTES have been paid to "respected and committed" West Oxfordshire District councillor Warwick Robinson who sadly passed away last night.

The 70-year-old, who first elected in 2000, passed away overnight in hospital after a long battle with cancer.

Leader of the council James Mills said: "Warwick worked tirelessly on behalf of local residents until his passing – both as a member of the district council for Hailey, Minster Lovell and Leafield, and also serving on our Cabinet.

"He was a respected and committed member of the council and he made an enormous contribution to overseeing the development of West Oxfordshire.

"He was a supportive friend and colleague and his planning knowledge and experience will be sorely missed.

"Our thoughts and condolences are with his wife, Anne, and their family at this very sad time."

Mr Robinson had been a long-standing and dedicated councillor holding positions such as cabinet member for eight years and as chairman of the planning committee.

The flag at the district council’s Woodgreen office will fly at half-mast on the day of his funeral, which is yet to be announced.