TRIBUTES have been flooding in for an "excellent" councillor described as a "world-class ambassador for Evesham and a first-rate friend".

Worcestershire county councillor and Evesham Town Councillor Peter Griffiths died unexpectedly last week.

Mr Griffiths has been described as a 'champion' for the town who, throughout the years, has directed funding for three additional defibrillators, placed benches in the high street and helped allow cafes and eateries to be established in Evesham.

Councillor Robert Raphael, chairman of Wychavon District Council and Evesham town councillor said: "Peter was an excellent town and county councillor, world-class ambassador for Evesham and first-rate friend.

Evesham Journal: Peter Griffiths, right, along with his other Evesham town councillors. Peter Griffiths, right, along with his other Evesham town councillors. (Image: Peter Griffiths)"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family at this time.

"He will be deeply missed by everyone who knew him."

Mr Griffiths was first elected to represent the Evesham North West Division on the county council in May 2021 and has since served across several committees. 

Evesham Journal: RESPONSE: Cllr Peter GriffithsHe worked across the Audit and Governance Committee, Corporate and Communities Overview and Scrutiny Panel, Environment Overview and Scrutiny Panel, Health Overview and Scrutiny Committee and the Planning and Regulatory Committee.

MP Nigel Huddleston added: "Peter was a good friend and a dedicated public servant.

"It was a privilege to have known him. He will be greatly missed by the community he loved to serve and, indeed, by everyone who came into contact with him."

Mr Griffiths joined Evesham Town Council in October last year and represented the Little Hampton Ward. 

He had replaced  Heather Kelleher, who had resigned.

A spokesperson for Evesham Town Council said: "The town council was extremely sorry to hear of the death of our councillor Peter Griffiths.

"In the short time he has been with us, Peter proved himself to be an active and conscientious councillor, and he will be profoundly missed.

"Our thoughts are with Peter's wife Marion and their family at this sad time."

Leader of Worcestershire County Council, Simon Geraghty, said everyone is mourning the sad passing of a friend and colleague.

"Not only was Peter a very active member of Worcestershire County Council, but he was also a dedicated and committed champion for Evesham," he said.

"I know Peter's family will be in all our thoughts at this very difficult time and I offer my sincere condolences.

"The loss of Peter will be felt by many across the county of Worcestershire."