Tributes have been paid to Glastonbury councillor Nick Cottle, described as a "positive man and colourful character", following his sudden death at the age of 68.

Mr Cottle served as one of two division members for Glastonbury on Somerset Council, having been part of the Liberal Democrat administration since May 2022. He was reportedly taken ill shortly after returning from a "long-anticipated holiday" in Canada, with his death confirmed by the council on Tuesday (August 12).

Council leader Bill Revans said he was "deeply saddened" by the news, praising Mr Cottle as a man who "tried to see the good in all" and "advocated passionately" for residents.

After leaving school, Mr Cottle worked on his family's farms in Wick, later working in retail, engineering and as the proprietor of cafés and gift shops in Glastonbury. In more recent years he ran a parcel delivery business, which he said had become "a busy, fast-moving" role during the pandemic.

He served on Mendip District Council for more than a decade, including a period as vice chair, and on Glastonbury Town Council for over 20 years, including a term as mayor. At Somerset Council, he chaired the planning committee east and was active in the Avalon and Poldens local community network, as well as serving on the Somerset Rivers Authority board, the Mendip Hills National Landscape partnership committee and the Axe Brue Internal Drainage Board.

Sarah Dyke, MP for Glastonbury and Somerton, said: "I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Cllr Nick Cottle. I had the privilege of serving alongside Nick during my time at Somerset Council, and I will always remember his warmth, good humour, and absolute dedication to the people of Glastonbury and Somerset.

"Nick worked tirelessly for his community, always putting the needs of residents first and ensuring their voices were heard. His kindness, integrity, and commitment to public service set an example to us all. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who knew him at this very difficult time."

Flags on council buildings across Somerset were lowered on Tuesday and will remain at half mast on the day of his funeral, with the date to be confirmed. A minute's silence will be held at the next full council meeting on September 25.

Somerset Council will send a formal letter of condolence to Mr Cottle's family. A by-election is expected to be announced by the end of the summer, with Cllr Susannah Hart covering casework in the meantime.