TRIBUTES have been paid to Gravesham councillor Colin Jupp who has died suddenly at the age of 62.

Cllr Jupp was also a parish councillor for Higham, near Gravesend. He leaves a widow, a daughter and two grandchildren.

The former bank manager with Barclays died after a brief illness.

The mayor of Gravesham, Cllr Harry Smith, said: "The news of his death is a terrible shock and our thoughts are with his wife and daughter at this time of huge sadness."

Council leader John Burden said: "Colin became known for being both caring and a strong champion for the constituents he represented.

"It goes without saying he will be sadly missed by his family but the council has also lost a good councillor who put others before himself."

Cllr Jupp had served as a borough council member for Higham ward since May 2003 and as a parish councillor since 1999.