The news that Les (82) had died in Papworth Hospital following what is believed to be two major heart attacks came as a shock to everyone, especially his family.

"To us, our dad was the most kind and wonderful person on this planet," his daughters Linda and Angela said. "In all our lives, he was a devoted father, always there if we needed him.

"He was clever, technically brilliant, cheeky, humorous, stubborn, generous and a person we always looked up to and loved.

"He was suddenly and tragically taken away from us and we are absolutely devastated.

"But he had a wonderful life, a close and loving family, lots of true friends; he lived life to the full.

"He loved Wisbech (Capital of the Fens) and its inhabitants and devoted his life to it, his business and us.

"We will miss him very badly."

At Wisbech Town Council, councillors remembered their long-serving colleague.

"Les Sims is well known and well-respected throughout the district for his dedication to the local community. His death is a great loss.

"The thoughts of Wisbech Town Council are with Brenda and his family and friends at this very sad time," said leader David Oliver.

Wisbech mayor Yvonne Lawrence paid tribute to her friend and colleague. Les has served as her deputy for the past seven months and was due to take over as mayor in May when she steps down, a position he has already held three times - in 1984, 1995 and 2003.

"He was a friend and will be so sadly missed. He did so much charity work and worked on three councils.

"He was one of the nicest men I have ever met," Mrs Lawrence said.

Cllr Roger Green, who has known Les for many years, both as a colleague and a personal friend, said: "Les was a true man of the people. His life was devoted largely to his charity and council work and he leaves a void that will be impossible to fill."

Les's death was also felt at Fenland District Council where he held positions on the licensing committee and overview and scrutiny panel.

Fenland chairman Ralph Butcher said: "Cllr Sims was an old-fashioned, pure gentleman who was well known all around the district.

"He was very knowledgeable and when he spoke about something, people always listened - everyone had a very high regard for his views. Nobody had a bad word to say about Les - everybody knew, respected and liked him."

"I've known Cllr Sims since he was elected to FDC," said council leader Alan Melton. "He was one of the kindest, most thoughtful men I have ever met and he was totally dedicated to local affairs, particularly around Wisbech. He will be very sadly missed."

Chief Executive Tim Pilsbury said: "Les was always a real gentleman and conducted himself with the utmost integrity.He dedicated a large part of his life to public service in Fenland areas and he will be much missed."

Les worked tirelessly in his role as chairman of Walsoken Parish Council, a post he held for more than 40 years, as a Conservative councillor for Kirkgate ward, a Cambs County Councillor and Fenland District Councillor. He was also a member of the Wisbech Rotary Club and has been part of the Round Table.

In his spare time, Les was a keen flyer and could often be seen down at Fenland Airfield at Holbeach St John. He had recently been declared fit to continue flying.

He ran his own electrical business, H & L Sims Ltd, which was started by his father Harry, and travelled all over the country as an official electrician for the Air Ministry.

Les was closely involved in several local charities. He was president of the Wisbech branch of Macmillan Cancer Support and was involved with the St Raphael Club with his late wife Shirley, who died in November 2003.

Les leaves daughters Linda and Angela, sons-in-law Ted and Dick, granddaughter Kelly, late grandson Robert, partner Brenda and sister Pat.