A COUNCIL worker who served East Lancashire local authorities for almost 20 years was found hanged at his home by his wife.

David Jackson, of Goldfield Avenue, Worsthorne, near Burnley, was discovered by his wife and neighbour early on Monday.

The 61-year-old had worked for Ribble Valley Council from 1978 to 1996 and had spent the last 18 months working for Hyndburn Borough Council as an engineer.

Today, council colleagues paid tribute to Mr Jackson and spoke of their shock at hearing the news, describing Mr Jackson as a well-respected member of staff. At Ribble Valley Council he spearheaded a major overhaul of the borough's sewerage system in the 1980s.

John Heap, Ribble Valley Council's director of commercial services, said: "David Jackson was a prominent member of staff during his 18 years at the council. He was instrumental in redeveloping the infrastructure of the borough and has certainly left a legacy for the people of the Ribble Valley.

"His former colleagues are deeply shocked at news of his death."

His family said they were too upset to speak about the tragedy. A neighbour who asked not to be named said: "He was really well thought of by everybody who knew him. Everybody was so shocked to hear of the news. He will be missed by a lot of people - although most of all by his family. They must be devastated by what's happened."

John Schofield, head of engineering services at Hyndburn Council, said: "I am speaking on behalf of all the engineering staff who worked with David, who was a valuable member of the team.

"Many staff have known David for several years through his work as a civil engineer in the area. He was a good friend and colleague and will be greatly missed. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his family."

East Lancashire coroner's office said Mr Jackson had been found at home by his wife, who had alerted a neighbour after making the discovery.

A post mortem examination was expected to be carried out today by a Home Office pathologist.

An inquest into his death is expected to be opened by East Lancashire Coroner Richard Taylor tomorrow.