TRIBUTES have been paid to a former mayor who has been described as a "perfect gentleman."

James Heyes, 81, died on Friday after battling a long-term illness.

The former JP was well known in the town for his quiet but sincere nature that brought him immense respect from all walks of life.

He was Burnley's Mayor in 1987 and was the independent chairman of Burnley Council's standards panel, as well as a keen sportsman.

The former Mullards employee worked alongside the town's MP, Peter Pike who paid tribute to Mr Heyes. He said: "I have known James for 40 years. I worked at Mullards, although we weren't on the same shift.

"He was always a gentleman and a hard worker especially for the labour party.

"He was a keen sportsman throughout his life who took great interest in sports and leisure.

"He had been ill for a long time. I saw him last year and he hadn't been well but as always he was very pleasant and always the perfect gentleman.

"His death is a great tragedy and my sympathy goes out to his wife Brenda and his daughters at this sad time."

The Mayor of Burnley Coun Gordon Birtwistle also added his condolences to Mr Heyes family. He said: "I seconded the vote of thanks when he'd been the mayor in 1987, as he was mayor when I was a councillor.

"He was a very quiet man, and extremely sincere but when he spoke people stood up and listened because he never wasted a breath.

"He invested a lot of time and interest into his the Brunshaw ward, which people respected him for.

"He will be sadly missed."

The town hall flag will be flown at half mast as a mark of respect for Mr Heyes.