WAVERLEY Borough Council has paid tribute to one of its long-standing members, councillor Brian Ellis, who passed away on Friday, September 30.

Julia Potts, leader of the council, said: “Councillor Ellis was elected as a councillor in 1995 and served as ward member for Cranleigh West, alongside his wife councillor Patricia Ellis, who was elected in 1999.

“He served as the Mayor of Waverley in 2002 to 2003 and for the majority of his time as a councillor, was the chairman of the eastern area planning committee.

“Councillor Ellis was an extremely hard-working, active member of the Cranleigh community and a previous chairman and councillor of Cranleigh Parish Council. He made a significant contribution to the village and all its residents, as well the entire borough.

“Councillor Ellis was a well-respected individual across the council and within the community; a loyal, calm, patient and fair gentleman who will be missed by all who knew him.

“Our condolences go out to his family and friends.”