TRIBUTES have been paid to West Oxfordshire district councillor Warwick Robinson, who has died in hospital after a long battle with cancer.

First elected in 2000, Cllr Robinson, who was 70, took on many roles in the district council, most notably serving as a cabinet member for eight years, with responsibilities including planning, housing and economic development. He also chaired a number of planning committees and served on numerous other working parties and committees.

Council leader James Mills said: “Warwick worked tirelessly on behalf of local residents from 2000 until his passing, both as a member of the district council for Hailey, Minster Lovell and Leafield, and also serving on our cabinet.

“Has was a respected and committed member of the council and he made an enormous contribution to overseeing the development of West Oxfordshire. He was a supportive friend and colleague and his planning knowledge and experience will be sorely missed.

“Our thoughts and condolences are with his wife, Anne, and their family at this very sad time.”

In his spare time, Cllr Robinson had a passion for classic cars and tennis and was an active member of Witney Round Table and 41 Club.

The flag at the district council’s Woodgreen office will fly at half-mast on the day of his funeral, to be announced.