IT is with great sadness that I learnt of the passing, at the age of 94, last week of Alderman Ron Carey BEM, JP.

Ron, originally a train driver by profession, one of the last Mid Cheshire Line railwaymen who worked out of Northwich Railway Shed, worked tirelessly for the people of Northwich and Cheshire.

He was awarded the British Empire Medal in 1987 for services to the community and the rail industry and was a highly esteemed public servant and Labour politician.

Many of the readers of the Guardian will remember Ron's fine achievements as a Labour councillor on Cheshire County Council and Vale Royal Borough Council, particularly for his work on highways and planning, as deputy lieutenant of Cheshire, mayor of Northwich, magistrate, Labour Party stalwart and not least as a devoted carer for Megan who sadly pre-deceased him a few years ago.

On a personal note, I will miss my regular chats with Ron, who I got to know as one of my constituents in Witton and Rudheath ward.

He was extremely kind to me and I could always count on his good advice and support.

He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered by the community of Northwich. My thoughts are with Ron's family, friends and former colleagues.

Cllr Julia Tickridge Labour's prospective parliamentary candidate for Weaver Vale