A Suffolk county councillor who "dedicated his life to local politics" has died at the age of 71, it has been announced.
Councillor Peter Gould, who represented Hoxne and Eye at Suffolk County Council, died on Friday, the local authority confirmed.
Mr Gould was elected to the county council in May 2021, and also served as a town councillor in Eye and as a Mid Suffolk district councillor.
Councillor Liz Harsant, chairman of Suffolk County Council, led the tributes to Mr Gould.
She said: “It is with great sadness that this council remembers Cllr Peter Gould, who sadly passed away on Friday.
"Peter dedicated his life to local politics, including senior positions in local Government across the country, and as a committed public servant in Suffolk.
"He was very well known and respected in his community and achieved a great deal for those living there, including being a staunch advocate for Hartismere Hospital.
“A champion of local people, his loss will be greatly felt, and our thoughts and sympathies are with his family and friends at this time.”
Matthew Hicks, leader of Suffolk County Council, also shared his condolences with Mr Gould's family.
He added: “Peter was always a great sounding board with his many years of experience in local government and I valued his friendship, support and words of wisdom.
“My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, friends and family at this difficult time.”
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