TRIBUTES have been paid to former town mayor and councillor and "man of the people" Jack Cookson.

Mr Cookson, who devoted years of his life to serving the people of Redditch, died on the weekend of pneumonia.

He was 88-years-old.

He was first elected in 1998 to represent Batchley and Brockhill and served until 2011, including being mayor in 2004.

Leader of Redditch Council Bill Hartnett said that Jack would be sadly missed by everyone who had known him.

"Jack was a great character and a real man of the people," he said.

"He led a full life and was involved with many local projects including Redditch credit union. He represented Batchley on the council and I served with him on many committees."

Mr Hartnett added that Redditch Town Hall has lowered its flag to half mast as a sign of respect.

Friends and family have paid their respects to Mr Cookson on social media.

Redditch Councillor and former mayor Joe Baker said: "A true man of the people, he always had a kind word to say and always had a laugh."

Vern Berlin Allen said: "He was a little man with a big heart and always have a joke to share."

Deborah Louisa Manneh said: "Rest in peace Jack, you were a true gentleman and a true character. Condolences to the whole family."

Laney Walsh said: "Devastated. Jack, not just my local councillor for years, but an amazing pillar of my local community, treasurer to our small charity, living working and breathing in our small and amazing community. Thank you Jack, I will, as will we all, miss you deeply.

Maureen Muckle said: "So sorry to hear this news, my thoughts are with you and the boys. He was loved and will be missed x"

Christopher Bloore said: "One of my first door knocking sessions was with Jack. Really sad news."

Mr Cookson is survived by wife Sandra and sons John, Paul, and Adam.