TRIBUTES have paid to Liverpool council stalwart Cllr Jack Spriggs, who died on Friday.

Labour Fazakerley Cllr Spriggs, described as “a true gentleman and an inspiration” by colleagues, died after developing pneumonia.

Labour group leader Cllr Joe Anderson paid tribute to 75-year-old Cllr Spriggs, whom he said had been a “tireless servant of his community”.

Cllr Anderson added: “He always represented people to the full.

“He will be greatly missed by everyone.”

Cllr Spriggs grew up in Everton, and attended St Francis Xavier school. He worked in the construction industry before moving to Fisher Bendix.

He earned his union and political spurs by leading the famous workers sit-in in 1972, when the company announced it was closing its Kirkby factory.

He became a councillor in 1991, and despite the sad death in 1999 of his wife of 40 years, Ann, continued to serve his city, becoming Lord Mayor in 2002.

Cllr Spriggs also served as vice chair of Merseytravel from 2005 until his death.

Merseytravel chief executive Neil Scales added: “His wise counsel stood me in good stead over the last 12 years and I will miss his advice.”

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