TRIBUTES have been paid to former Bridport deputy mayor Henry Samuel, who has died aged 57.

Despite suffering continuing ill health over the past decade he was a tireless worker for many local organisations in the town, particularly youth groups.

He served on the town council as a Conservative member for the Bridport South Ward for some 10 years, before losing his seat at last year's elections. He was chosen to serve as deputy mayor to Coun Geoff Ackerman in 2002.

He was admired by colleagues and political opponents alike for his commitment, reliability and hard work, often carried out quietly behind the scenes.

Paying tribute to her friend, former Lib Dem town councillor Gill Fifield said: "I think people underestimate how much Henry did for the town and how many organisations he was involved with, despite his ill health. He was very involved in helping young people - out collecting for them even in the pouring rain."

Fluent in French, Mr Samuel, a bachelor, moved to Bridport around 12 years ago. He worked for BT for some years and was also a financial adviser with Allied Dunbar, before undergoing major heart surgery.

His financial expertise brought him several jobs as treasurer with local groups including BYPAT - the Bridport Young People's Action Trust.

Senior youth worker Arthur Woodgate said: "Henry was a quiet and private man, and it's difficult not to feel that the work he did for this community has largely gone unnoticed.

"I shall remember him with great fondness, not only for the person that he was, but because of the extensive work he did - behind the scenes, as was his wont - on behalf of young people.

"This included serving on the management committee at the youth and community centre, as treasurer for BYPAT and in a similar capacity for the ZEST! Music Project."