TRIBUTES have been paid to a 'modest' and 'supportive' man who made a 'huge contribution' to Bridport

Bob Gillis, who served as the town clerk for 11 years, has died aged 61 following a lengthy battle with cancer. He leaves behind his wife, Fiona, and their two children.

Mr Gillis served in the position for Bridport Town Council from 2007 to 2018, part of his long career in local government.

During his time in Bridport, Mr Gillis oversaw a significant expansion in the town council's operation as it took on services from the district and county councils as well as a major refurbishment of Bridport Town Hall.

Cllr Sarah Williams, former leader of Bridport Town Council, said: "I was terribly sad to hear the news of Bob's passing. He was a modest man and reluctant to take credit for his achievements, but make no mistake, his was a huge contribution to the town.

"I cannot express how valuable his support to me was, during my time as Leader, and my thoughts today are with his wife Fiona and children Ellie and Rory."

Cllr Dave Rickard, current leader of Bridport Town Council, said: "Bob was the model professional as town clerk. He was a supportive and steadying influence as the town council developed its increasingly ambitious projects such as Community Justice Panels, the developing Rights Respecting project and climate change action.

"We were extraordinarily fortunate to have him here in Bridport and will remember him fondly and are thinking of his family at this difficult time."

Mr Gillis moved to the Bristol area after retiring in 2018. Outside of work his biggest passions were his family and sports such as cricket, horse racing and particularly football, being a lifelong supporter of Charlton Athletic.

Cllr Ian Bark, Mayor of Bridport, said: "I was a parish councillor when Bob was town clerk, but came to know him well, particularly through his work on the Bridport Area Neighbourhood Plan - a lasting legacy for the town. He made many friends among councillors, colleagues and residents, all of whom are devastated to hear of his passing."

The town flag at Bridport Town Hall is flying at half mast this week in memory of Mr Gillis, and councillors paid tribute to him with a minute's silence at the council meeting on Tuesday.