TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Newport councillor who was “full of enthusiasm”.

Bill Pursey, a councillor for the Marshfield area of the city between 2004 and 2008, died last week at the age of 85, following a stroke.

Mr Pursey’s daughter Gill Perry, 54, said that her father’s health had deteriorated in the last few years.

“My mum died in 2014 and I do not think he really got over that,”she said. “He was very active in politics and felt that he wanted to help and do something for the community.

“He moved to Marshfield in 1995 and really enjoyed his time as councillor for Newport. He was involved in different committees.”

Mr Pursey’s other daughter, Rose Amos, described her dad as a “proud man” who helped a lot of people.

“He always had time for other people,” she said.

“He was always on the phone talking to people.

“Over the last week, we have realised how well respected he was.”

Mrs Perry also desribed her father – who had four children and eight grandchildren – as a “gentle and loving” man.

“He was a lovely father who had a very good sense of humour,” she said. “He was always joking.”

Mr Pursey had various occupations before becoming a councillor while semi-retired.

These included being a machine operator, and a greengrocer.

Paying tribute to him, the leader of the conservative group in Newport, Matthew Evans, said that Mr Pursey was a “much respected and active” member of the Marshfield ward.

“Always full of enthusiasm, he offered me sound advice when I became leader of the opposition,” he said. “He was a dedicated and passionate family man who would always receive you with a warm welcome when visiting his house.

“He will be sorely missed.”

Cllr Richard White, who now represents Marshfield Ward, said: “I will always be grateful for Bill’s wisdom and advice and for persuading me to become a city councillor.”

Mr Pursey’s funeral will be held on Wednesday, at 2pm, in St Mary’s Church, in Marshfield.

The wake held will be held at St Mellons Country Club.