TRIBUTES have poured in for Councillor Wilf Clegg who died a week after he was critically injured in a road accident.

Friends and colleagues are mourning the loss of a "lovely man" who was dedicated to his family and local community.

The flag was flying at half mast at Bury town hall where Coun Clegg had represented Holyrood in Prestwich for six years.

Liberal Democrat Coun Clegg (53), of Brandram Road, Prestwich, died in the Royal Preston Hospital early on Monday(May 1). It is thought the postman had been returning to work when he suffered extensive head injuries in a collision with an Escort van outside Tesco in Prestwich the previous Tuesday.

He is survived by wife, Jeanette, children Darren (24), Lee (17) and Laura (11), who is Prestwich Carnival Regency Princess, and two grandchildren.

Jeanette said she was "overwhelmed" by the support of local people.

She said: "The cards and phone calls are keeping me going. I knew he was liked and respected but there is a lot more care and feeling than I could imagine. "He really enjoyed helping people and did the best he could as a councillor. We are justordinary people and we were both staggered by the feedback he got and the thanks from people."

Coun Wilf Davison, leader of the Liberal Democrats in Bury, paid tribute to his friend and colleague as the driving force behind party campaigns such as those to improve the Metrolink system and save local post offices.

He said: "He was a mild-mannered man who lived for other people rather than himself and did so much for charity. He was much respected and loved in his community and there is a tremendous sense of shock."

Coun Derek Boden, leader of Bury Council, added: "He did not go in for long speeches but he was a very effective councillor and well respected. He raised issues and raised them until he got an answer. I think that is important because it is why people elect councillors."

Coun Clegg joined the Community Health Council (CHC) in January, 1999, and Mr Paul Reynolds, CHC chief officer, said: "He was a superb member and a tremendous gentleman. He was very keen in his efforts to help improve the health services in Bury and always gave his full support. Wilf was always prepared to find out information and help push CHC matters forward. He was an excellent councillor and a very unassuming and very modest man. He will be very sadly missed by all the CHC members."

A concert has been arranged in Coun Clegg's memory at Heaton Park Social Club in Prestwich where he was a member.

"Wilf was one of the most genuine men I have ever known and we are all deeply upset. He did a lot for the club and organised many concerts," said club secretary Mr Alf Bancroft.

Local band Flashback will be performing at the concert on Sunday, May 21. Tickets cost £3. Contact the club on 773 1091 or Mr Bancroft on 773 0162 for details.