Moving tributes have been paid to a West Cumbrian councillor ‘with a zest for life’ who died suddenly aged 31.
Arthur Lamb has been described as an ‘amazing young man who was universally loved and respected’.
He was the youngest member of Cumbria County Council and represented Cleator Moor and Frizington for the Conservative Party.
Councillor Lamb was elected to the county council in 2017. His division including the parishes of Arlecdon & Frizington, Cleator Moor, Ennerdale & Kinniside, and Lamplugh. He was shadow cabinet member for customers, transformation and fire & rescue.
Cllr Lamb, who worked for the NHS, was a keen cricketer, described as “a cornerstone” of Whitehaven Cricket Club, who, among many of his duties, coached the club’s juniors.
A dedicated, popular and principled councillor, Cllr Lamb was a highly popular member of the county council.
Conservative group leader, Councillor Hilary Carrick, said: “There are no words to describe my sadness at hearing the tragic news of Arthur’s untimely passing.
“Quite simply, he was an amazing young man who was universally loved and respected. He was a very talented politician and hugely effective county councillor who worked tirelessly for the local community that he loved.
“Arthur had a maturity and wisdom that exceeded his years and his considered contributions, positivity, dedication, enthusiasm and cheeky grin will be hugely missed. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to his family and friends at this very difficult time.”
Stewart Young, leader of Cumbria County Council, spoke on behalf of the Labour Group.
He said “News of Arthur’s untimely death came as a huge shock to everyone. He was well known and well liked on the county council.
“His election in 2017 in what was previously a safe Labour seat, came as a surprise even to Arthur, but he threw himself into the role and was an able and effective representative. Members from all sides of the political divide will join his family and friends in mourning his passing.”
Peter Thornton, deputy leader for Cumbria County Council and speaking on behalf of the Liberal Democrat Group, added: “It seems unbelievable that someone with such a zest for life should be taken so young.
“It is a tragic loss for Arthur’s family, friends and the people he represented so well in Cleator Moor East and Frizington. We offer our deepest sympathies to his family and friends at this sad time.”
