TRIBUTES have flooded in for Deputy Mayor of Rossendale Councillor Peter Gill, who died on Monday.

Friends and colleagues of Coun Gill say the death of the well-loved and respected figure, who was also the borough's town crier, would leave a huge gap.

The flag at Rawtenstall Town Hall is being flown at half mast as a mark of respect.

Coun Gill, 58, who with his wife Councillor Christine Gill, has three grown up daughters and seven grandchildren, was diagnosed with kidney cancer in January.

He also had secondary cancer in his lungs, chest and back but had bravely vowed to fight the disease, and took inspiration from his wife, who herself conquered breast cancer 25 years ago.

The pair opened Rossendale's first 24-hour Relay for Life, at Marl Pits, Rawtenstall, in July, carrying out a lap of honour at the event, which raised vital funds for Cancer Research UK.

The former firefighter, who lived in Greave Close, Constablelee, was first elected to Rossendale's Hareholme Ward in May last year.

The Labour councillor was made Deputy Mayor in May this year and was due to be made Mayor of Rossendale next May, after years of tirelessly working behind the scenes. Councillor Alyson Barnes, Labour Group Leader, said: "Peter was a friend and valued colleague who brought a different outlook to the group and was particularly well known for his humour and his infectious enthusiasm and his passion for life. Above all he was someone who was devoted to and cared deeply for his family, his friends and the people of Rossendale."

George Graham, Rossendale Council's executive director of resources said: "Peter's passion for Rossendale as a place and its people shone through in everything he did."

Rossendale Council leader, Coun Duncan Ruddick, said: "We all know of the tremendous courage with which he faced his illness and we will all feel his loss."

Mayor of Rossendale Coun Joyce Pawson, said: "He was a lovely, lovely man. And he will be sorely missed."

Independent, Coun Al-an Neal, said: "People always say at times like this he was a giant of a man' but with Pete Gill that really was the case."

Coun Catherine Pillin-g, speaking on behalf of the Rossendale Liberal Democrats, said: "On behalf of Rossendale Liberal Democrats I would like to extend our heartfelt sympathy to Peter's wife, Christine and Peter's family."