DEPUTY Prime Minister and Liberal Democrat leader Nick Clegg has led tributes to South Lakeland District Council leader Brendan Jameson who died suddenly aged 66.

Coun Jameson, who was also a Cumbria County and Kendal Town councillor, is believed to have died in the early hours of this morning (Monday) after a heart attack.

Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, said: “I met Brendan many times as leader of South Lakeland District Council. He was always a true fighter on behalf of his community, making sure they were heard by Government.

“The last time I was in Kendal I saw him at the opening of Chemotherapy Services at Westmorland General. He was so proud of another campaign success. Brendan and Tim were a formidable team – working together they did everything they could to make things better for people in South Lakeland.

“My thoughts are with his family today. He was a fantastic community champion and our party has not only lost a council leader but a true liberal and a great friend."

Lawrence Conway, SLDC chief executive, said: "It is with tremendous sadness that we have been informed of the passing away of South Lakeland District Council Leader Brendan Jameson.

"As an authority we wish to send our sincerest condolences to Cllr Jameson’s family and friends."

Tim Farron, MP for Westmorland & Lonsdale, said: "A leader and a window cleaner - everyone here knew that Brendan Jameson wasn't a politician, he was one of us. Brendan was born and bred in Kendal and besotted with Kendal.

“Brendan was the first ever Lib Dem to lead our District Council, the man who brought recycling to every home in South Lakeland and who ensured 500 new affordable homes were built for local families. He also fought like a tiger to make sure that we got the Olympic Torch and Olympic investment into South Lakeland."

Mike Liptrot, head coach at Kendal Judo club, praised Cllr Jameson for the great work he did in South Lakeland. He said: "He has been very passionate about the Olympic Games.

"He was passionate about sport and brought the Olympic Games forward into the area. He was all about promotion of the town and other things as well.

"We have not always agreed but he was a good guy." Cllr Jameson, who was chair of the Cumbria steering group for the Olympic Games, was influential in bringing the Olympic Torch to the county.

Mr Liptrot added: "It is sad that he did not see it through to fruition."

He said it was a very sad time for everyone who knew Cllr Jameson.

Conservative Coun Tom Harvey said: "It really is very sad news - we were obviously of differing political parties but he worked tirelessly for all of South Lakeland.

"It takes your breath away that this has happened and I think all councillors and staff feel a bit hollow - it is such a shock."

Arrangements for Cllr Jameson’s funeral are yet to be arranged.

Please feel free to leave a tribute to Cllr Jameson below.