A WELL-respected councillor who “spent his whole life working towards righting injustice” has died.

Tributes have been paid to Des Moffatt, who died earlier this weekend after a short illness.

The Labour politician had served as a borough councillor since the early 1980s, most recently as ward councillor for Rodbourne Cheney.

He was the founding chairman of Central Swindon North Parish Council. In a statement, acting parish chairman John Ballman and clerk Andy Reeves said: “It is without doubt Des’s dedication, duty and his unwavering passion to local need that has enabled our parish council to deliver so many services in such a short space of time.”

Coun Jim Grant, Labour group leader on Swindon Borough Council, called Mr Moffatt the most moral man he had ever met.

“I knew Des for over 20 years. He was my closest friend in politics. He was an outstanding councillor for both Western and Rodbourne Cheney wards for over 40 years. He was part of his community and I can say with certainty than his community were grateful for all he did for them,” he said.

“In recent years he was chairman of North Central Swindon Parish Council and it was Des's drive and determination which has largely contributed to the success of that parish.

“Des had huge respect among all councillors of whatever political colour

“But Des was much more than a politician. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather.

“He was the most moral man I've ever known. For his whole life he worked towards righting injustice and helping those who were well less off. I am personally devastated at his loss as is the whole Labour movement in Swindon.

“Our thoughts are with his wife Jean and the rest of his family.”

Justin Tomlinson, Conservative candidate in the North Swindon parliamentary constituency, said: “He always took his civic duties seriously and was one of the most widely respected borough councillors after years of diligent service for his local community.”