TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular town clerk who has died aged 60 after serving the community for many years.

Malcolm Baker was a full-time town clerk in Stowmarket for seven years and had also performed the role for the parish council in nearby Buxhall for 40 years.

He was a well-known face at Stowmarket Town Council’s Milton House base and listed the site as one of his two favourite places in the town, along with the parish church, complete with its “impressive spire”.

A tribute from his family last night said: “He was an adored husband, father, father-in-law and grandfather.

“We are all very proud of him for what he achieved and glad his legacy will continue in the town.”

Mr Baker had been suffering from cancer and had been signed off from his duties at the town council since the New Year.

He passed away on Easter Monday and last night council leader David Whybrow described him as an “outstanding” town clerk.

He said: “The legacy of Malcolm’s work will be seen for many years to come. The town council and staff will miss his guidance and leadership and our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”

Deputy Mayor Poppy Robinson said Mr Baker had been a “great mentor” to her when she joined the council.

She said: “He will leave a gap that is going to be very difficult to fill. His ambition and his work for the town was terrific.

“My husband David and I are very saddened by the news and our thoughts are with Malcolm’s wife and family.”

Council public services manager Daniel Harvey said staff were “shocked and devastated” by the news.

He said: “Malcolm loved his job and was behind many great ideas and initiatives that have made Stowmarket a better place.

“He was well loved amongst the staff and will be missed hugely.”

Mr Baker was born in Buxhall and worked in the electricity industry for many years. He had lived in Stowmarket since the early 1980s and is survived by his wife and four grown-up children.