TRIBUTES have been paid to a former councillor who has died aged 84.

Gerald Daldry was well known in political circles including serving as an agent for Liberal councillor Ivan Trusler.

He was also the president of Colchester Liberal Democrats.

Mr Daldry played his role in February 1981 when the Colchester Council by-election saw a shock defeat of the Conservatives in Lexden ward, paving the way to success for the Liberal Party and Social Democratic Party.

The alliance was led by Gerald Daldry who, in 1982, was elected as a councillor for Shrub End ward, a position he held until 1994.

Mr Daldry, who was married to Grace, was chairman of Colchester Council’s housing committee from 1987 to 1991 and was deputy chairman of the housing committee until 1994.

The alliance became the Lib Dems in 1988.

Sir Bob Russell, Colchester’s former Lib Dem MP, paid tribute to Mr Daldry.

He said: “He was the man who, quietly but with determination, shrewdly helped bring about a major change in the political landscape of Colchester which not only brought a refreshing attitude at the town hall but which also paved the way for me being elected as Colchester’s MP. “ He added: “I owe so much to Gerald for what he helped achieve.”

Mr Daldry was born in Lawford and went to Colchester Royal Grammar School.

He did National Service in the Royal Air Force from 1951 to 1953 and trained as a wireless operator.

He attended Writtle Agricultural College before joining animal food merchants Paul’s of Ipswich, where he advised poultry farmers.

When he was in his late 30s, he became a teacher and he worked at Home Farm Primary School in Colchester before moving to St John’s Green Primary School.

His wife was also a teacher and taught at St George’s Infants School in Colchester.

The couple had three children - Graham, Ian and Gillian - and five grandchildren.

Mr Daldry was also a keen rambler, cricketer and badminton player.

Mr Daldry suffered a stroke last year and following this he moved to Copford Place elderly people’s home, where he died.

His funeral takes place tomorrow at 3pm at Lexden Methodist Church before he is buried in Mistley Cemetery, Donations to the Friends of the Elderly can be made via Gwinnell and Sons in Ipswich Road, Colchester.