The Leader of Sandwell Council, Darren Cooper, has suddenly died.

Friends and colleagues were in shock today concerning the 52-year-old married father of three, who had been leader since 2009.

Sandwell Council leader Deputy Leader, Councillor Steve Eling, said: "It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of the leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Darren Cooper who died last night.

“This is of course a terrible shock to everyone who knew Darren.

“He was hugely liked and respected by both his colleagues at the council and the constituents who he was dedicated to serving."

He added: “Our thoughts and condolences are with his wife and family and we ask on their behalf that their privacy be respected at this extremely sad and difficult time.”

Tom Watson MP, Deputy Leader of the Labour Party and MP for West Bromwich East, said:

“There will be many members of the Labour Party who will wish to pay their tributes to Darren as a civic and political leader. 

“I would like to remember the funny and humorous friend who loved the Albion and bank holiday fishing. We shall all miss Darren, a true son of Sandwell. 

“My thoughts, prayers and love are with Karen and Darren's family.” 

Adrian Bailey, MP for West Bromwich West, said:

“I am shocked and deeply saddened by this news.

“I have known Darren for over 25 years, as a friend, council colleague and latterly, Council leader.

“He had a passion for public service and demonstrated great skill as a politician. He has navigated Sandwell Council through a very difficult period, managing enforced economies but ensuring that they were fairly implemented and commanded public support. Labour's strength on Sandwell Council is a reflection of his qualities as leader. I am sure he would have gone on to serve in even higher positions.

“He will be greatly missed as a warm, caring individual who could have achieved even more for the Black Country community he loved.  

“My heartfelt condolences go to his family at what must be an incredibly difficult time for them.”

John Spellar, MP for Warley, said:

“He was a good friend and a stalwart of the Labour Party. He had not only made a big contribution as Leader of Sandwell but was starting to be a major figure in Local Government nationally. It is shocking that he has died so young.”