The sudden death of former St Edmundsbury mayor Tim Marks has sparked a potential political crisis at Suffolk County Council.

Mr Marks, 78, died suddenly yesterday after collapsing while on council business as a member of St Edmundsbury’s development control committee.

He was also a Conservative member of the county council – and his death technically deprives the Tories of their majority at Endeavour House.

They now hold 36 seats on the 75-seat authority but there are two vacancies and former Tory councillor Brian Riley is now an independent who lives in America.

Mr Marks had only returned to the county council in May last year after winning a by-election at Haverhill Cangle division. He had previously been a member of the authority between 2005 and 2013 when he had not sought re-election.

He was a popular figure in his home town and was mayor of St Edmundsbury in 2012/13, Olympic year. His death brought tributes from both authorities.

County council leader Colin Noble said: “As a well-respected man, Tim had a warm and friendly relationship with council members, officers and the communities he served so well. He will be remembered and missed by everyone.”

St Edmundsbury leader John Griffiths added: “I am extremely sad to hear of the sudden death of Cllr Tim Marks.

“Tim was a man of so many talents and a true gentleman who was much liked and respected by members, officers and staff alike.”

Mr Marks’ widow Margaret is also a member of St Edmundsbury Council.

There is already a county council by-election pending following the resignation of former deputy council leader Lisa Chambers at the end of last year.

The Tories now have two west Suffolk seats to defend although it is too early for by-election dates to be announced.