Leading South Tyneside councillor, Barrie Scorer has died suddenly at his home in Jarrow.
Councillor Scorer (63) was a Labour councillor in the Primrose Ward. He was the Cabinet's Lead Member for Environment and Transport and a member of Jarrow Community Area Forum.
Councillor Scorer served as Mayor of South Tyneside from May 1998 to May 1999 with fellow Jarrow councillor Maisie Stewart as his Mayoress.
The Leader of South Tyneside Council, Councillor Iain Malcolm, said: "I was terribly upset to hear of Barrie's death; not only has the council lost a very good Cabinet member but I have lost a very dear and valued friend and the people of Jarrow have lost a councillor who assiduously defended their interests.
"Barrie was a larger-than-life character, noted for his deep knowledge and love of local history as well as his wit, warmth and charm. As Mayor, he presided over council meetings with fairness and good humour, and was respected by both sides of the chamber. Our thoughts are with Barrie's family and friends at this very sad time."
First elected as a member for the former Jarrow Borough Council in 1971, Councillor Scorer served on Tyne and Wear County Council and was involved in many cultural activities in the region on behalf of South Tyneside Council.
Councillor Scorer served on numerous committees and boards including Planning, Human Resources and Standards. He was a member of South Tyneside Racial Equality Forum and on the management committees of Jarrow CA, the Mid Tyne Activities Centre, Millennium PHAB Club and Primrose CA.
At this point no details of funeral arrangements are available.
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