TRIBUTES have been paid to veteran Runcorn politician, magistrate and historian, Bill Leathwood who has died, aged 92.

Mr Leathwood was a member of the Liberal party since the 1930s and became a Cheshire County Councillor when he was 68.

He served in the Merchant Navy during the war and founded Runcorn Historical Society with Bert Starkey.

He was an organist and lay preacher at Vista Road Methodist Church.

Heath Lib Dem Clr Mike Hodgkinson, said: “Bill was in his element talking to people.

“He brought the same energy and enthusiasm to the job of county councillor as he had showed during the election campaign.

“He was held in respect and affection by members of all parties.

“He was also deputy Lord Lieutanant of Cheshrie and enjoyed the honour of undertaking this role.

“He loved Runcorn and was passionately interested in history.”

Mr Leathwood was elected three times and rose to become chairman of Cheshire County Council, serving until Halton became a unitary authority.

If you wish, you may pay tribute to Bill Leathwood here.