Tributes paid after death of Labour group leader

Tributes have been paid to the leader of Great Yarmouth's Labour group who has died aged 76.

Trevor Wainwright first became a borough councillor in 2002 and later led the council from 2012 to 2015.

The authority, which is flying its flag at half mast, said he had recently spent time in hospital and had been away from the council.

Colleagues described him as "a true gentleman" while the council said he was "an energetic campaigner who always got things done for his constituents".

Wainwright had lived locally for more than 30 years and was first elected to the council in 2002, representing Bradwell North.

He lost his seat in 2008 but returned to the council two years later, where he represented Magdalen ward until his death.

He had a spell as council leader for three years, while also serving as a Norfolk County Councillor from 2001 to 2009.

Labour borough councillor Paula Waters-Bunn said he was a "dearest friend, colleague and leader" to party members and "a true gentleman".

"Trevor was an invaluable part of the Labour family here in Great Yarmouth and all our hearts are very heavy with his loss," she added.

Conservative council leader Carl Smith said that "despite representing different political parties, we always enjoyed an excellent working relationship".

"It meant we were able to put differences aside to focus on what really matters - our residents."

Council chief executive Sheila Oxtoby praised his "long and distinguished service" and said he left "a lasting legacy".

Wainwright is survived by his wife and three children.

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