LONG-serving Ipswich councillor Bill Turnbull has died suddenly at the age of 64.Mr Turnbull had represented the Bridge Ward at Civic Centre since 1980, and had been planning to stand for re-election in May.

By Paul Geater

LONG-serving Ipswich councillor Bill Turnbull has died suddenly at the age of 64.

Mr Turnbull had represented the Bridge Ward at Civic Centre since 1980, and had been planning to stand for re-election in May.

He collapsed and died on Friday on his way home from a trade union meeting – and the news has left his council colleagues shocked and saddened.

"I've known Bill for many years," said council executive member and former Labour agent John Mowles.

"He played a major role in the Old Stoke community, he had lived in the area for many, many years and represented the area very well on the council.

"He was very active in the Labour Party and in the Engineering Union. Many people will be very sorry to hear the news," he added.

Mr Turnbull leaves a widow, Cynthia.

Outside politics and the trade union movement, Mr Turnbull was a keen radio ham and also kept tropical fish.

Because the next borough elections are less than two months away – on May 2 – there will be no need for a by-election in Bridge Ward.