COUNCILLORS from across the political spectrum have united in paying their respects to the “wonderful” former Leys councillor Val Smith.

Mrs Smith, who died on Friday after a long battle with cancer, had represented Blackbird Leys for 27 years.

She passed away at about 9am at Sobell House Hospice, Headington, where she had been staying since April.

Members of the Oxford East Conservative Association expressed their condolences to Mrs Smith’s husband, Oxford East MP Andrew Smith, and family.

Labour councillor for Littlemore John Tanner said: “Val Smith’s death leaves a huge hole in Blackbird Leys, in Oxford and in local politics.

“She helped thousands of people and leaves Oxford a much better place than when she first arrived all those years ago.

“Like so many people across Oxford, I want to send my deepest sympathies to her family and especially to her husband, Andrew.

“Val’s epitaph is all around us – hundreds more council homes, a renewed Blackbird Leys, families from overseas reunited and a more caring Oxford.

“I already miss her determination and passion for the lives of ordinary people.

“It has been a privilege to know her as a friend, fellow councillor, Lord Mayor and proud citizen of a city she loved.”

During her long career as a politician, Mrs Smith served as Lord Mayor of Oxford and the vice-chairman of Oxfordshire County Council, representing the Leys.

County council leader Ian Hudspeth said: “She was a great councillor. I had worked with her since 2005.

“Her heart was always about people and in particular the people of Blackbird Leys, who she stood up for tremendously well.

“She was such a great person and Andrew loved her dearly.”

Samuel Burgess, deputy chairman of the Oxford East Conservative Association, said: “Val’s reputation as a kind, compassionate and hard working member of the community preceded her.

“She will undoubtedly be missed by many. Our thoughts are with her husband Andrew and all of her family and friends.”

Steve Curran, who took over representing the Leys at county level after a by-election last November, after Mrs Smith’s resignation in September, said: “Val was a wonderful woman who understood the people of Oxford, and particularly of Blackbird Leys, better than anyone.

“She is already missed.”

Labour councillor for Northfield Brook Scott Seamons added: “The affection and admiration for Val was expressed again and again across our community throughout recent months, and couldn’t be overstated.

“I am truly blessed to have known her, and will always treasure our friendship.”

Vice-chairman of Cherwell District Council Melanie Magee, who stood against Andrew Smith as the Conservative candidate for Oxford East at the General Election, said: “During the campaign, we met residents who had lots of good things to say about both Val and Andrew.

“With Val’s passing Oxford has lost a good servant.”

Peter Sloman, chief executive of Oxford City Council, said: “Val was held in high regard and affection by council staff both past and present who worked with her over many years.

“Today is a sad day for the council and our heartfelt best wishes go out to Andrew and Val’s family members.”

There is now a book of condolence in the town hall reception for staff and the public to sign.