Tributes have been paid to Suffolk County councillor Caroline Page who passed away last night following her battle with cancer.

Cllr Keith Robinson, Suffolk County Council's Chairman, said: "It is with great sadness that Suffolk County Council remembers councillor Caroline Page. 

"Caroline was a well-respected, hardworking woman and dedicated county councillor since her election to the Woodbridge division in 2008. Caroline's unwavering enthusiasm and relentless passion for serving her residents saw her achieve a great deal during her time in office, not only for those living and working in Woodbridge, but those across Suffolk through her wider responsibilities at the county council. 

"In the past 15 years since her election, Caroline held many positions within the council, including being the spokesperson for Women, Disabilities and Adult care, Highways and Transport and Deputy Leader for the Liberal Democrat, Green and Independent Group. 

"Caroline served on many council committees – dedicating her time to scrutinising council activity, shaping policies and ultimately helping to improve services to all Suffolk residents. She was an active member on a range of subjects, including environment, waste management and economic development, highways and transport, rights of way, governor appointments and education. Since 2010, Caroline was vice-chair the Education Transport Appeals Committee.

"Despite Caroline's health challenges in recent years, she committed everything she had to ensuring Woodbridge and its residents were looked after and championed. Caroline also made sure she continued to make us smile in recent months through her regular Twitter updates, sharing her photos, videos and wit. 

"Our thoughts and sympathies are with her family and friends at this sad time." 

Cllr Andrew Stringer, Leader of the Green, Liberal Democrat and Independent Group, said: "Caroline was a true force of nature, a tireless campaigner and a brilliant councillor. From cleaning up rivers, to championing woman's equality, Caroline set the bar for what a councillor should aspire to be - always putting her community first. For those that had the pleasure to work alongside her, we are proud to call her a friend."