TRIBUTES have been paid to a Herefordshire councillor who has died.

"It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the death of Councillor Peter Jinman OBE on May 25," a Herefordshire Council spokesperson said.

Councillor Jinman was first elected in September 2017, and served as the ward member for Golden Valley South.

He was an active member of the council as a Cabinet support member until May 2023, and as vice-chairperson of the health, care and wellbeing scrutiny committee.

Councillor Jonathan Lester, leader of Herefordshire Council said: “On behalf of all Herefordshire councillors, I want to express our sadness at the death of Councillor Peter Jinman.

“Coun Jinman was deeply respected by everyone at the council and in his own ward where he was a veterinary practitioner. He was also a past president of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and was chairman of the Farm Animal Welfare Committee at DEFRA.

"He was profoundly knowledgeable and applied this with true dedication to his work and contribution to the council, which benefited so many people.

“He will be sorely missed by all. Our deepest sympathies are with his family, friends and colleagues”.

Flags at Herefordshire Council buildings have been lowered to half-mast in respect.

They will remain at half-mast until the day of the funeral.