Cllr Mike Devaney was chairman of the county council for a year Pic: Chorley Conservatives

Tributes have been paid from leaders of all political parties in Lancashire after the death of a veteran county councillor.

Preston-born Mike Devaney passed away at the age of 78 on Thursday (19 May).

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A minute’s silence is to be held at the next county council meeting for the pensioner who had represented Chorley Rural North since 2009.

Mr Devaney, who attended Preston Catholic College, went on to forge a career with British Gas as well as working for Allied Ironfounders. He also completed two years national service in Northern Ireland.

He retired in 1997 and pursued a number of hobbies and interests, including fly-fishing, before starting political life with the Conservatives. He became chairman of the county council between 2013 and 2014.

Leader of the Conservative group county councillor Geoff Driver said: “Mike was a valued colleague and friend. He was an excellent public servant who was dedicated to serving not only the residents in his division but also all the people of Lancashire.

“He will be sorely missed by all his colleagues on the county council. Our sincere condolences and deepest sympathy go out to his family who can be justly proud of Mike’s record of public service.”

What the opposition had to say

Leader of the county council and Labour group Jenny Mein said: “I’m very sad to hear of Mike’s passing and would like to offer my condolences to his friends and family.

“He was a dedicated county councillor, serving on a number of committees, and worked hard during his year as Chairman to represent Lancashire and promote understanding of the county council’s work.”

Liberal Democrat leader county councillor Bill Winlow said: “I am particularly troubled to hear of Mike’s death. I first got to know him in 2009 and immediately realised that he was an extraordinary individual who had much to offer Lancashire.

“He was an excellent Chairman of council, both non-partisan and erudite, and I came to think of him as a friend. I mourn his passing and offer my condolences to his family. He will be sorely missed by all knew him.”

County councillor Gina Dowding who leads the independent group said: “I first got to know Mike when he was Chairman of the county council.

“It wasn’t until the end of his year as Chairman that I found out which party he represented, which I think is an indication of how fair and non-partisan he was.

“He always carried out his duties with a sparkle in his eye. He will be much missed in the council chamber.”

Mr Devaney leaves behind his wife Harriet and son Edward.

Did you know county councillor Devaney? You can leave your tributes in the comments below