Tributes have been paid after the unexpected death of a local election candidate.

George Andrew Darlington was standing for the Conservative party in Walkden South ward in the upcoming elections on Thursday. He was taken ill and died last week.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett sent his wishes to the Salford candidate's family in light of the sad news, saying: “We are all shocked by the news and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Mr Darlington’s family and friends at this difficult time.”

Returning officer Jim Taylor, also Chief Executive of Salford City Council said: “Naturally the election in Walkden South needs to be postponed and I have today published the legal countermanding document. The election will be held in due course but it cannot be held on the same day as that proposed for the European elections, Thursday May 23.”

People who have already put their names forward as candidates for the Walkden South ward will remain on the ballot paper as fresh nominations are not required by law.

An order will be made for a new election to be held no later than 35 days, excluding weekends and bank holidays, from the date originally chosen for the election, in this case Thursday May 2.