TRIBUTES have been paid to the Lord Mayor of Manchester, who has died.

Coun James Ashley, who represented Gorton South, passed away on Saturday four months after he was diagnosed with stomach cancer.

He made political history in 1987 when he became the first Liberal Democrat councillor in living memory to win a seat from Labour.

His son, Coun Simon Ashley, said: "My father was extremely honoured to become Manchester's Lord Mayor and he participated with pride in the civic events of recent months. He enjoyed meeting so many people from local communities and from all over the world.

"We are touched by the many messages of sympathy we've received and our family would like to thank everyone for the support they are giving to us."

Coun Ashley underwent surgery for his cancer in May and told the MEN at that time that he was "optimistic" about being able to carry on as normal with his civic duties.

'Alternative'

Chairman of the Manchester branch of the Liberal Democrats, Coun John Commons, said: "He set the path for the Liberal Democrats to be a real alternative to Labour in Manchester. He was both a trusted and valued colleague as well as a friend. He will be badly missed by everyone at the city council, whatever their political persuasion."

Coun Ashley leaves a wife, Kate, as well as three sons, a daughter and six grandchildren.

Leader of Manchester city council Sir Richard Leese said: "We are very sorry to hear the sad news of the Lord Mayor's death. Our thoughts are with the Lady Mayoress and his family."

A council spokesman said Coun Ashley's civic duties will be carried out by the Deputy Lord Mayor, Coun Glynn Evans, and other councillors until a decision is made about the appointment of the next Lord Mayor.