TRIBUTE has been paid to a former council leader who has died at the age of 89.
Former Herefordshire councillor Tony Johnson oversaw a period of major change in Hereford while leader of Herefordshire Council, including the completion of the Old Market shopping centre on the site of the city's former livestock market in 2014
He also played a key role in advancing economic development in the city, particularly through the early delivery phase of the Rotherwas Enterprise Zone.
First elected as a councillor in 2010, he served as leader of the council from May 2013 to May 2018, continuing to serve as councillor for Hope End ward until standing down from public office in 2023.
Mr Johnson, who died on Saturday (May 2), had spend more than 30 years working in banking before entering local government, playing a role in the transformation of TSB from a state-run organisation into a commercial business. He retired from banking in 2001.
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Current council leader Councillor Jonathan Lester said Mr Johnson was a "kind and generous man, dedicated to his duties as both councillor and council leader".
He said Mr Johnson was widely respected, wholly committed to leading the council, and will be remembered for his good nature.
“He steered the county through a period of real change and achievement," said Councillor Lester, adding it had been "a privilege" to work with him.
"He oversaw the delivery of landmark regeneration projects such as the Old Market development, transforming a long‑standing brownfield site into a vibrant destination that helped revitalise Hereford city centre. He also played a pivotal role in laying the foundations of the Rotherwas Enterprise Zone."
The council said it extends its sincere condolences to Tony’s family, friends and all those who had the privilege of working with him.
As a mark of respect, Herefordshire Council will fly the County Flag at half-mast on the day of his funeral.
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