BOROUGH politicians have been paying tribute to West Midlands MEP Philip Bradbourn who has lost his battle with cancer, aged 63.

Mr Bradbourn, who had served in the European Parliament since 1999, had been diagnosed with bowel cancer soon after being re-elected in May and he died last night (Friday).

A former chairman of the West Midlands Conservatives, he worked in local government for a number of years and was awarded the OBE in 1994.

Ashley Fox, the leader of the Conservative MEPs, described Mr Bradbourn as a “much loved character" and added: "His no-nonsense approach to politics made him a powerful voice for the West Midlands as well as a resolute defender of the British taxpayers’ interests in Brussels and Strasbourg".

In Dudley - former borough council leader Cllr Les Jones said he was "shocked" to hear the news of Mr Bradbourn's death and added: "Over the years I have worked closely with Phil and found him to be one of the most sincere and hard working politicians I have ever known."

Former deputy leader of Dudley Council Tim Wright described him as a "thoroughly decent man".

And Cllr David Vickers, deputy group leader of Dudley Conservatives, said: "He was a very sincere and nice human being, politicians don't always come across in that way but Phil always did."

Pedmore and Stourbridge East Councillor Mike Wood, Conservative Parliamentary candidate for Dudley South, added: "I will always be grateful to Philip for giving me my first opportunity in politics when he was first elected in 1999.

"As well as being an exceptionally committed MEP, who was proud of his Black Country roots, Philip was always generous with his time and thoughtful in his advice.

"He will be missed by all of us who were lucky enough to have known him."