A book of condolence has been opened in memory of county councillor Kevin Lynes, who died suddenly on Friday.

The dad-of-two, who represented the Tunbridge Wells East division, collapsed at his gym and died shortly after.

The 53-year-old, who lived in Goudhurst, was a leading member of the Conservative cabinet and tipped as a future leader of the authority.

Kent County Council has now opened a book of condolence for people to record their memories of Cllr Lynes.

KCC leader Paul Carter led the tributes to Cllr Lynes this morning.

He said: "Kevin was in the premier league of local government councillors nationally - hard working, dedicated and compassionate. He always put the residents he represented in Tunbridge Wells first."

"Most importantly, Kevin made a huge difference in carrying out his many roles at County Hall. As cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, Kevin was in his element, supporting businesses of all shapes and sizes across the Kent economy. The Kent economy is in a better place as a result of Kevin's dedication and endeavours.

"He will be enormously missed not only in the corridors of County Hall but around the county. Our thoughts, prayers and heartfelt sympathies go out to Kevin's family and his many friends."

Cllr Lynes joined the cabinet in 2002, a year after his election, where he held the resources portfolio from 2002 to 2005 and then became member for adult social services until 2008.

He was then appointed cabinet member for regeneration and economic development, a position he thrived in. He earned a reputation as a committed, hard-working and passionate politician.

Paying tribute to him on Twitter, Cllr Mike Whiting, cabinet member for education, said: "Shocked to hear of the death of my KCC cabinet colleague Kevin Lynes. I'll miss his advice and humour. Kent is a poorer place this morning."

Anyone wishing to contribute to the book of condolence can do so at Sessions House, Kent County Council, County Road, Maidstone, ME14 1XQ, or, from Tuesday afternoon, at Tunbridge Wells Library, Mount Pleasant Road, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1NS.