TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular former Darwen councillor who died suddenly, aged 40.

Friends of campaigner Derek Brindle said he died in Blackpool's Victoria Hospital after a suspected heart attack.

His death has stunned fellow colleagues in the Labour Party.

Coun Kate Hollern, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "I knew Derek well and his death is very sad.

"He was elected to the council in the same year as me and worked very hard for the people he served.

"He was very popular and one of his biggest campaigns was for action over the technical college in Darwen town centre."

Mr Brindle was first elected to Sudell ward in May 1995 and served the area until 2004, when he lost his seat.

During his nine years at the town hall, he was both chairman and vice-chairman of the libraries and arts committee and then became the lead member for leisure and culture for a year in 2000.

He campaigned for many years to save the former Darwen techinical college from demolition and recently expressed his delight that plans had been submitted to transform the historical building into apartments.

He also spent time with fellow Darwen councillor and friend Moira Barrett, during his years as councillor, successfully campaigning to stop Darwen police station closing.

Coun Barrett said: "I was very sad to hear of Derek's death and will remember him fondly. Quite a few years ago we spent many a Saturday morning outside the town hall campaigning to keep the police station open. I have been told he had quite a bad heart attack and was transferred from Blackburn to Blackpool, where he sadly died."

Phil Watson, chief executive of Blackburn with Darwen Council, said: "On behalf of the council I would like to express my shock and sadness on hearing about Derek's tragic death.

"He was a popular figure in his area and my sympathies go out to his friends and family at this sad time."

Rossendale and Darwen MP Janet Anderson said: "Derek worked hard for many years both for the council and as a leading Labour Party activist.

"This is tragic news and he will be greatly missed. My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.'' The Blackpool coroner said the death had been reported to him but there were no plans at this stage for an inquest.