Labour announces death of former Cleveleys councillor

The Labour stalwart, described as 'one of life's great characters', is reported to have been killed in a car accident while holidaying in Egypt.

In a statement, the group said: "It is with deepest regret that Thornton Cleveleys Labour have to report the death of our friend and comrade, John Traynor.

"John, our deputy chair, was an active member of the branch over many many years, and a Cleveleys Park councillor for a number of years.

"He was a proud socialist who wore his heart on his sleeve. He will be missed by all in our branch, and our thoughts are with [his partner] Julie and family at this very sad time.

Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw said he was 'unbelievably shocked and saddened by the news'.

"JT was a true friend and socialist," he added. "My thoughts are with his partner Julie - and with all their family. They must be devastated."

And Jon Bamborough, the organiser of Blackpool Music Festival, wrote on Facebook: “Absolutely shocked and saddened to hear of the untimely passing of my good friend, work colleague and comrade, John Traynor, who died in a road traffic accident whilst on holiday in Egypt.

“My heart goes out to his partner Julie and all his family.”

Mr Traynor lost his seat on the council in 2007, and last stood in the local elections last year, when Conservatives Ian Amos and Christine Amos were elected.

Tributes continued to pour in on social media this afternoon.

Ronald Shewan said on Facebook: "John Traynor was a true socalist, a great friend, one of life's great characters. I will miss him for the rest of my life."

And Debs Woods said: "I have only known him a relatively short time but he made such a lasting impression on me.

"I loved to listen to him speak and could happily listen to him all day long.

"He was rare gent of man of principal who cared deeply for others and was a pleasure to know and truly inspiring."