TRIBUTES have been paid to a Renfrewshire Labour councillor who died peacefully in his sleep aged 66.

Eddie Grady was elected as one of the councillors for the Renfrew South and Gallowhill ward in 2007.

In addition to his political career, Eddie was widely known and respected in Renfrew where he lived.

Colleagues and political rivals were among those who came forward to pay their respects.

Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall said: “Eddie was committed to helping people and improving the community

“That applied particularly to the people and community he was proud to serve in Renfrew South and Gallowhill.

“Eddie will be remembered with respect and affection. Our thoughts are with his son Edward, his daughter Sandra, and his grandchildren Callum and Katie-Leigh."

Nationalist MSP Derek Mackay admitted that he had often clashed with Eddie about what was best for the town but said he had always found Eddie to be polite and courteous.

Mr Mackay said: "My sincere condolences go to Eddie Grady's family, friends and colleagues.

"I had known Eddie for a number of years after both serving as Renfrew councillors together I always found him to be polite and courteous."

Eddie held a number of senior positions on Renfrewshire Council, including depute finance convener, and convener of Renfrew and Gallowhill Local Area Committee.

Renfrewshire Council leader Mark Macmillan said: “Eddie was a valued and well-liked member of the Labour Group on Renfrewshire Council.

“He was able to draw on a lifelong involvement with the trades union and labour movement to inform his commitment to giving people more opportunities in life.

“Eddie was always willing to help people and that shone through in his work, in his community involvement, and in his service to the people of Renfrewshire.

“We will miss his friendship and his contribution to changing Renfrewshire for the better.”

There is no date for Mr Grady's funeral yet and a by-election for his ward will be held within three months.