Flags flew at half mast at both Barking Town Hall and Dagenham Civic Centre yesterday following the death of Cllr Tony Perry, who died last Saturday.

The well-loved councillor stood as a Labour member in Whalebone ward from May 2010 but passed away following a long-term illness.

Throughout his term, he stood as deputy chair of the Development Control Board, Licensing and Regulatory Board, Children’s Services Select Committee and the Living and Working Select Committee.

He was also involved with the Tenants Federation and Community Housing Partnerships amongst others.

Barking and Dagenham Council chief executive Graham Farrant said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death Cllr Tony Perry, an active member in Whalebone ward who was also a dedicated and respected member of a number of committees and resident groups.

“Our thoughts and prayers at this time are with Councillor Perry’s family and friends.”

His funeral will take place on Monday April 28 at Eastbrookend Cemetery, with the cortege set to pass the Civic Centre at 1.40pm.

Due to the timing of Cllr Perry’s death - just weeks before the upcoming local elections - his vacancy will not be filled until after polling day, with Whalebone ward having just two serving councillors until then.