A FORMER MP for Weston has passed away.

Brian Joseph Michael Cotter, otherwise known as Lord Cotter of Congresbury, died "peacefully" earlier today (Tuesday, November 14) at age 87.

Lord Cotter leaves behind his wife, Eyleen, and their three children and grandchildren. He was surrounded by his family at the time of his passing.

From the years 1986 - 1990, Lord Cotter worked as a local councillor for Woking Borough Council.

Lord Cotter became Weston’s first non-Conservative MP for more than 70 years in 1997 and had an eight-year stint as the town’s representative in Westminster for the Liberal Democrats.

In 2006 he was then elected as a life peer to serve in the House of Lords.

He serviced for 17 years in the House of Lords on the Liberal Democrat benches. 

According to the UK Parliament website, Lord Cotter's focus areas included economy and finance, business, employment and training and health services and medicine.

Tributes have been pouring in from those who knew him and supported the work he carried out, whether it be in parliament or his work with "numerous good causes, local charities and groups."

North Somerset Council Leader Mike Bell said: “Brian was a good, kind man who was dedicated to public service.

"He had been a campaigner, councillor, MP and Peer and supported numerous good causes, local charities and groups over many decades. He will be fondly remembered by many people who he helped in some way.

"My thoughts are with his family and friends.”

A spokesperson from the Lib Dem Whips Office said: "It is with sadness that we have to let you know that our own Brian Cotter died peacefully earlier today surrounded by his wife and children.

"Brian was a proud small business man who spent eight years in the Commons and 17 in the Lords. He will be missed. Condolences to his family."

Commenting underneath this tribute, one person wrote: "Brian Cotter persuaded me to join the then Liberal Party.

"A very dynamic campaigner and part of the local upsurge in Woking in the 80s which led to first LD council ever in Woking subsequently."