Tributes have been paid to a former Wirral councillor and school governor, who passed away suddenly late last month, at the age of 87.

Born in 1934, Brian Cummings MBE was elected councillor for Bebington Ward from 1988-1995.

He then went on to become the Chair of Governors at St Anselm's College in 1996 - a position he held until 2013, retiring as a governor two years later.

Brian was awarded the MBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List in 2012.

Wirral Globe: Brian Cummings after receiving his MBEBrian Cummings after receiving his MBE

Speaking to the Globe, his daughter Lizzie Maher said: "Dad had regularly been a contributor to the local news and community with his achievements and continued support of the local community.

"I had been working in New Zealand for 10 years at the Wellington Phoenix. During this time I had to return to have a brain tumour treated at Clatterbridge Hospital. My father held my hand every day as we walked to the hospital together. He was a true legend, hence he was highlighted with Wirral awards and an MBE."

Brian originally joined St Anselm's College as an 11-year old in 1945.

A statement on the St Anselm's website said: "We are sad to announce the death of our much-loved and highly respected former Chair of Governors Mr. Brian Cummings, who passed away on 29th January.

Brian was a true gentleman and the embodiment of what we like to describe as "Anselmian values".

Wirral Globe: Despite his public service commitments, Brian Cummings (top left) was a true family manDespite his public service commitments, Brian Cummings (top left) was a true family man

"He was very proud of his association with the College and gave generously of his time for decades. Brian was imbued with a strong sense of public service.

"He served Upton Hall School, Wirral Grammar School for Boys and Birkenhead High School for Girls as a Governor and was also an elected member of Wirral Council.

"Brian was a committed Catholic who was an active member of St. Luke's parish and Birkenhead Catenians, as well as supporting Anselmians Rugby Club and the Anselmian Association and Edmund Rice Trust.

"He was a talented sportsman who represented the college at rugby and cross country in his youth, and ran for the army.

Wirral Globe: Brian Cummings loved sportBrian Cummings loved sport

"Most important of all, he was a devoted husband and family man, as husband, father and grandfather and we offer our condolences to his widow Doreen and daughters Catherine, Helen and Lizzie as well as his grandchildren, including Daniel who followed in his footsteps at the college.

"Brian was a supportive and empathetic Chair of Governors who was a great friend to staff and students and had time for all of us. He will be greatly missed."