Tributes have been paid to Essex politician and former Wivenhoe mayor Steve Ford, who has died following a battle with cancer.

The 63-year-old, who served Wivenhoe Quay at Colchester Borough Council, was described by colleagues as being a “conscientious, vigilant and thoughtful” man, who was popular among everyone at the authority, regardless of political allegiance.

The Labour politician was first elected to the borough council in April 2004 and he successfully retained his seat in the next two elections – he was due to stand for re-election in 2015.

Tim Young, leader of the Colchester Labour Group, said Mr Ford was a delight to talk to about politics and had a great insight into political history and philosophy.

He added: “He was a tireless activist and campaigner who could always be relied upon to show up for canvassing or leafleting sessions regardless of the time or the weather conditions.

“His family meant the world to him and his devotion to Maria (his wife) and his children shone through whenever you met him.

“I can’t believe that I will never see Steve again or pick up the phone to him because I valued his opinion and advice so much and I know that is shared by a huge number of his colleagues.

“He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.”

Mr Ford, whose commitment to his ward was described as “second to none”, was a teacher by profession and he taught at a number of schools in the area, most recently at Clacton Coastal Academy.

He was a graduate of the University of Essex and was a big sports fan, taking a particular interest in football and rugby union.

His other political achievements including serving as the mayor of Wivenhoe and as vice chairman of the borough council planning committee.

Mr Young added: “He was known on the borough council for being conscientious, vigilant and thoughtful although always prepared to argue passionately for the causes and values that he believed in so strongly.”

Mr Ford is survived by his wife maria and children Nikolai and Lizzie.