Port St Mary Commissioners have paid tribute to a member who has died suddenly.

The authority announced the death of Rob Hirst, who had been a member since 2016.

In a statement, the commissioners described Mr Hirst as ’a valued and passionate member’, adding: ’The board and staff of Port St Mary Commissioners would like to express their sincere condolences for the sudden and sad passing of commissioner Rob Hirst.

’His presence around the board table will be missed.

’Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time, and we know that many residents will miss seeing Rob in the village.’

Mr Hirst was a member of the Rushen Emergency Ambulance Committee, the Southern Authorities Health Care Committee, and the Port St Mary Business Association.