TRIBUTES have been paid to a Somerset Labour Party stalwart, Minehead Town Councillor and former BBC journalist Andy Lewis, who has passed away.

Mr Lewis, a keen campaigner and dedicated charity volunteer, died after a fall at his home, the Somerset Labour Party said.

A spokesman for Somerset Labour said: "We are all devastated at the loss of our friend, who was such an active and illustrious member of the party.

"He was an active campaigner and held the roles of West Somerset Branch Secretary and Treasurer at Constituency and Branch level for many years.

"He was also a Minehead Town Councillor for the Alcombe ward for the past three years.

"His bravery, energy, good humour and friendship will be very much missed by many across the constituency.

"We send our sympathy to his family and we will keep you informed about funeral arrangements when we know them."

Mr Lewis grew up in Northants and spent most of his working life as a journalist at the BBC, including the role of senior editor of the news team at Radio 4.

He moved to West Somerset with his wife, Barbara, and their three children in the late 1990s.

Following the death of his wife and his subsequent early retirement, Andy became actively involved in local life, the spokesman added.

"He volunteered for the West Somerset Advice Bureau for many years along with a shorter stint at the Sedgemoor Citizen’s Advice Bureau," he said.

"As well as his Labour activities, Andy was an active members of Amnesty International, the West Somerset LETS organisation, a regular quizzer with the Roadwater team, the Valiant Nomads, who under his captainship won many contests."

He also volunteered for West Somerset Engage, a furniture recycling project and Taunton Oxfam, where Andy was able to combine his love of books with volunteer work, he said.

Mr Lewis was a long term supporter of Arsenal, was an avid reader, writer and enjoyed jazz and blues music in particular.

"He leaves a lasting legacy and will be very sadly missed by many," the spokesman added.