FLAGS above the seat of county government have been flying half mast today in tribute to a stalwart councillor and honorary alderman who has died.

Dr Ray Ellis served as a county councillor for Fareham South East and Fareham Town from 2001 until his retirement in 2013.

His devotion to serving on many committees and as cabinet member is shown in the sheer number of posts and responsibilities he had over the years.

This included important areas of local government responsibility such as economic development, health education, leisure and heritage.

Paying tribute to Dr Ellis, county council leader Cllr Roy Perry said: “I personally was privileged to work with Ray Ellis both in my time as Member of the European Parliament and since 2005 as a county councillor.

“Ray was very much a man who brought people together and achieved results. He was always constructive and courteous and a thoroughly likeable man.”

Dr Ellis served on several committees, including education, policy and resources and recreation and heritage, and was chairman and vice-chairman of the River Hamble harbour management committee.

Professionally he worked for the World Bank and was an important figure in the Sir John Cass Foundation.