ADUR councillors today paid tribute to a colleague who suffered a fatal heart attack at a council meeting.

Richard Knight, 40, of Old Salts Farm Road, Lancing, became ill during the council meeting at Adur Civic Centre, Ham Road, Shoreham, at around 8pm on Tuesday.

He was given first aid on the floor of the council chamber by another councillor at the meeting, Dr Tim Stevenson, and an ambulance was called.

Mr Knight was rushed to Worthing Hospital but doctors there were unable to revive him.

The Labour councillor was elected to Widewater Ward last year and also served on Lancing Parish Council.

Mr Knight, who worked as an accountant, leaves a widow, Sylvia, and three children.

Coun Mike Willson, leader of Adur's Labour group, said: "He was a friend of mine and he will be greatly missed.

"He was a good father and a marvellous partner to his wife.

"After a year on the council we were beginning to see his potential. But the best was yet to come."

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